Canterbury Cathedral, known as the 'Mother Church of the Anglican Communion,' is one of the most important monuments of Christianity in England. Dating back to the 6th century, this monumental building is not only a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, but also a witness to England's turbulent history.

A visit to the cathedral is a journey through the centuries - from the Romanesque crypt, through the Gothic naves, to the famous Trinity Chapel, site of the martyrdom of St. Thomas Becket. Every element of this building tells a fascinating story. The 12th century stained glass windows, depicting miracles associated with St. Thomas Becket, are among the oldest and most valuable in England.

The cathedral offers a variety of experiences for visitors. You can attend daily services, listen to the world-renowned cathedral choir, or take a guided tour that reveals the secrets of this remarkable building. For families with children, there are special tours and interactive exhibits that bring the history of the cathedral to life in an accessible way.

Note the impressive vaults of the nave, which are said to be among the highest in England. The view from the cathedral tower offers panoramic views of Canterbury and the surrounding Kent countryside, an added attraction for visitors.

Canterbury Cathedral, compared to other UNESCO sites in the city, stands out not only for its size, but also for its vibrant religious and cultural function. Unlike the ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, the cathedral is vibrant, offering a rich program of cultural and educational events throughout the year.

Ticket prices range from £12 to £14 for adults (as of 2023), making it slightly more expensive than other UNESCO sites in Canterbury. However, the wealth of experiences it offers fully justifies the price. The cathedral is open to the public year-round, except on certain religious holidays.

Keep in mind that as an active place of worship, the cathedral requires visitors to behave and dress appropriately. It is a place that combines religious, historical and cultural functions, offering an unforgettable experience for any visitor.

The Abbey of St. Augustine, founded in 597 by St. Augustine of Canterbury, is one of the most important monuments of early medieval England. Although today we can only admire the picturesque ruins, the site still exudes an atmosphere of ancient splendor and spirituality.

Visiting the abbey is a fascinating journey through time. The ruins stretch over a vast area, offering a peaceful space for exploration and contemplation. Particularly impressive are the remains of the abbey church, where traces of various architectural periods - from Anglo-Saxon to Gothic - can be seen.

St. Augustine's Abbey, compared to the cathedral, offers a more intimate and reflective atmosphere. While the cathedral bustles with life and tourist traffic, the abbey allows for a more personal and quiet experience of history. It's the perfect place for those seeking silence and the opportunity to dive deeper into the past.

One of the most interesting elements of the visit is the audio guide, available free of charge with the purchase of a ticket. It offers insightful commentary on different parts of the ruins, allowing visitors to explore history at their own pace. This is perfect for families with children, who can adjust the pace of the tour to suit their needs.

Unlike the cathedral, the abbey is an entirely outdoor site, which means that the weather can have a big impact on the quality of the tour. It's worth planning a visit on a sunny day to fully appreciate the beauty of the place. The lack of crowds, a characteristic of the site, adds to its charm and makes for a peaceful and engaging experience.

Ticket prices are lower than the cathedral - around £8.50 for adults (as of 2023), making the abbey more accessible for families and those traveling on a budget. The facility is open year-round, except during the holiday season.

Also worth noting is the small museum located on the abbey grounds. It offers a deeper dive into the history of the site, showcasing artifacts found during excavations and interactive displays. Of particular interest is the VR set, which allows you to see how magnificent the abbey must have looked 1,500 years ago.

St. Augustine's Abbey, while less well-known than the cathedral, is an equally important part of Canterbury's UNESCO heritage. Its tranquil character and rich history make it an ideal destination for those who want a deeper understanding of the roots of Christianity in England.

The Church of St. Martin in Canterbury, believed to be the oldest continuously used church in the English-speaking world, is a true gem among the monuments of Kent. Its history dates back to the 6th century, when it served as the private chapel of Queen Bertha of Kent, even before the arrival of St. Augustine in 597.

Compared to the imposing cathedral and the sprawling ruins of St. Augustine's Abbey, St. Martin's Church may seem inconspicuous. However, it is its modesty and authenticity that make it unique. It is a place where you can truly feel the spirit of early Christianity in England.

The architecture of the church is a fascinating mix of styles from different eras. You can see elements from the Roman, Anglo-Saxon, Norman and modern periods. Particularly interesting are the fragments of Roman bricks built into the walls of the church, attesting to its ancient origins.

Unlike the cathedral and abbey, admission to St. Martin's Church is free, although voluntary donations for the upkeep of this valuable monument are welcome. This makes it an excellent option for families and travelers on a tight budget.

One of the greatest strengths of St. Martin's Church is the presence of extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers who are eager to share their knowledge and passion for the history of the site. Their stories bring the old walls to life and help visitors imagine what life was like in Canterbury centuries ago.

For those who prefer a self-guided tour, laminated information sheets in various languages are available, providing detailed information about the significance and architecture of the church. This is perfect for those who like to explore history at their own pace.

St. Martin's Church, unlike the more crowded cathedral, offers a quiet atmosphere for reflection and contemplation. It is the perfect place for those looking for an authentic historical experience without the crowds of tourists.

It is worth noting that St. Martin's Church, despite its historical significance, still serves as an active church. This means that visitors can not only admire its architecture, but also attend services, providing unique opportunities to experience the living Christian tradition.

The church's location, within walking distance of the city center and other UNESCO sites, makes it easy to incorporate into a Canterbury tour. It is the perfect place to start or end a UNESCO heritage tour in the city.

St. Martin's Church, while less well known than the cathedral or abbey, is an equally important UNESCO World Heritage Site in Canterbury. Its simplicity and authenticity offer a unique glimpse into the earliest days of Christianity in England, making it a must-visit for any lover of history and culture.