The Harrowing of Hell

Bristol Cathedral is a gem in itself and one is never short of reasons to visit. Often reasons that go far beyond religious feelings. If you are interested in seeing one of the most historic cathedrals in the United Kingdom, do not hesitate to include it in your visit to the city.

Inside the cathedral you will discover numerous milestones in the history of art in England and among them a very curious one that was hidden for centuries, the relief known as The Harrowing of Hell.

The Harrowing of Hell is a concept in Christian theology that refers to the descent of Jesus Christ into Hell between his crucifixion and resurrection. According to tradition, Jesus liberated the souls of the righteous who had died before his coming, such as Adam and Eve, from the realm of the dead. This event is not explicitly detailed in the Bible but is derived from interpretations of passages such as 1 Peter 3:19 and Ephesians 4:9.

The Harrowing of Hell is depicted in relief on Bristol Cathedral's South Transept. In the image, Jesus is seen reaching down to Adam and Eve while perched atop Satan's head. Presumably engraved just prior to the Norman Conquest around 1040, this exceptional specimen of Anglo-Saxon stonework is uncommon and significant. Used as a coffin lid, it was found beneath the Chapter House floor during a fire in 1831.

The Harrowing of Hell underscores Jesus's victory over death and his role as savior, redeeming humanity and offering hope of salvation beyond earthly life.