IT'S a chance to see the interior of the most famous building in York the way it would have looked in centuries past.

The Nave of York Minster was cleared of all 800 of its chairs yesterday, a popular event which happens only once a year, during the cathedral's quieter time.

The building of the Nave began in 1280, and took 70 years to complete. Built in the Decorated style, it replaced the old Norman Nave of Thomas of Bayeux. In medieval times, the Nave was used for a variety of purposes: markets were held there, and in the 1500s there were complaints about boys playing football in it.

One of the finest features of the Nave is its floor, which only becomes properly visible when the chairs are cleared. This dates from the 1730s, when the Minster was re-paved by Lord Burlington and William Kent.

It was not until the latter half of the 19th Century that the Nave was lit and heated, allowing it to be used for large services and musical events. It will be empty of chairs until February 19.

Updated: 11:26 Wednesday, January 04, 2006