St. Mary Magdalene's Church in Launceston features unique carved granite blocks on its exterior. Dating back to the 12th century, the current building (1511-1524) was erected by Sir Henry Trecarrel in memory of his son. After the dissolution of Launceston Priory in 1539, the Corporation took over management. Various repairs and additions ensued, including a west end gallery in 1718 and a restoration in 1894 under John Dando Sedding's plans. Notable features include a memorial to Thomas Prockter Ching and a Gothic Rood Screen by the Pinwill sisters.
The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.
Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.