Barfrestone - St. Nicholas

Barfrestone is a small village known since the time of the Domesday Book, when the manor was owned by Odo, the Bishop of Bayeux. In 1076, the lands were then granted to Hugh de Port, whose descendents may be connected to the erection of this church end of the 12th century, that was a site on the pilgrim route between Dover and Canterbury. This small church is a masterpiece of Norman art and architecture.

The southern portal shows carving of the highest order, most probably the work of master carvers and masons, based in nearby Canterbury.

Another detail

At the bottom is a monkey riding a billy goat and carrying its prey on a pole. Riding a billy goat is often associated with the devil and the prey, which looks like a child, would then be a captured soul.