The Sanctuary Knocker
In the Middle Ages the Cathedral provided refuge for fugitives.
Anyone who had committed a serious offense
could claim sanctuary by knocking on this door.
The fugitives were given thirty-seven days to organize their affairs.
They had to decide either to stand trial or
to leave the country by the nearest port.
This knocker is a replica.
The original one may be seen in the
Treasures of St. Cuthbert Exhibition in the Cathedral precincts.
