Photo of Great Hall, Bishop's Palace, St. Davids
 The northern wall of the great hall, on the courtyard side. (See previous illustration for reconstruction and overview of the great hall.) This is where elaborate ecclesiastical feasts were held in the 14th and 15th centuries. We are standing in the western end of the hall, opposite the great wheel window (which was covered in scaffolding when I visited, so sadly there is no photo). The remains of a cross-wall can be seen on the floor in front of us. The bishop's high table would have been positioned just on the other side of that wall. Only his most distinguished guests would have sat alongside him at the high table. Above them (behind where we are standing) hung a rich fabric canopy, and the table would have been covered with a white linen tablecloth. All the best dishes of silver and gold, together with cups and flagons, were laid out on a buffet to one side. The remaining guests, and members of the bishop's retinue, would have sat on benches at tables ranged down the length of the room. The presentation of meals was elaborate in this great hall. Servants who carried the food from the kitchen were met at the far wooden screen (beneath the wheel window) by the steward. Holding his rod of office, he led them in procession up to the high table. The bishop was the first to be attended to, followed by the remainder of the high table, and then the other guests. From here, a doorway leads into the great chamber (with latrine block), which in turn connects to the great chapel. |
