The core of the church is believed to be 8th-century, based on similarities with Northumbrian churches known to date from this period.[1] If this date is accurate, it is the oldest building in South Yorkshire.[2] Historian David Hey argues that it was a minster church, forming the centre of a large, early parish, covering all or much of the 11th-century Fee of Conisbrough.[3] From this early period survives much of the stonework of the tower and nave, including some windows, most of which were later blocked. Part of a 10th-century cross shaft has been discovered, and the church is recorded in the Domesday Book as having a single priest.[1]
The 12th-century tomb chest
In the 12th century, aisles were added, and the chancel arch and south door also date from this period, as does a tomb chest in the south aisle.[4] Rita Wood argues that the tomb is for William de Warenne, 3rd Earl of Surrey, who died in 1148, as it depicts battles and themes from The Song of Roland.[2] The piscina and a cross slab in the north aisle are 13th-century. The church was next remodelled in the 14th century, from which time the present south aisle dates. In the 15th century, the tower was refaced, and a south porch and clerestory added. Many of the windows also date from this time. The north aisle was rebuilt in 1866, and there was a general restoration, followed by another later in the century, and in the 20th century, the porch was restored.[4]
