Canterbury: A Historic City at the Heart of Momentous Change

11 December 2025 City Exploration

Canterbury Enters a New Chapter in History

The historic cathedral city of Canterbury is at the centre of a groundbreaking development in the Church of England. Dame Sarah Mullally was named the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury in October 2025, becoming the first woman to hold the office and to lead the Church of England. Her legal confirmation is scheduled for St Paul’s Cathedral on 28 January 2026, with her formal installation at Canterbury Cathedral in March, marking a transformative moment for this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Significance of Canterbury

Canterbury has served as the spiritual heart of English Christianity for over 1,400 years. The city gained prominence after St Augustine arrived in 597 CE to reestablish Christianity in southern England. Thomas Becket’s martyrdom in 1170 transformed Canterbury into one of medieval Europe’s major pilgrimage sites, and the cathedral has remained a focal point for faith and history ever since.

Today, Canterbury continues to blend its rich heritage with contemporary life. Canterbury’s cultural scene thrives through events like the Canterbury Festival, one of England’s largest arts festivals, and the Marlowe Theatre’s acclaimed productions. The city’s connections to Geoffrey Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales” further cement its place in literary and cultural history.

Looking Ahead

Archbishop-designate Mullally faces significant challenges as she prepares to assume her role. She will preside over an institution struggling to stay relevant in a more secular nation, attempting to bridge divides between its more conservative and liberal wings, and fighting to reclaim trust after a child abuse cover-up scandal. Mullally replaces former Archbishop Justin Welby, who announced his resignation in November following controversy over safeguarding failures.

As Canterbury prepares for this historic installation, the city remains a vibrant destination where ancient traditions meet modern life. The appointment of the first female Archbishop represents not just a milestone for the Church, but underscores Canterbury’s enduring role as a place where history is continuously made and witnessed by millions of visitors and faithful worldwide.