THE remains of two shrines dedicated to the city’s only saint are to go on show together for the first time in more than 400 years.

The two shrines are dedicated to St William of York, with the oldest dating from 1330 and the newest of the two from the 15th century.

Both had previously been on display to the public in York Minster but this came to an end with the Dissolution Of The Monasteries and Henry VIII’s campaign against the Church.

But both shrines will be displayed together once again this August as part of the Yorkshire Museum’s refurbishment when it reopens on August 1.

Andrew Morrison, curator of archaeology, said: “St William is York’s only saint and regarded as one of the most historically important in the north of England. He was unusually crowned Archbishop of York twice.

“Thousands of pilgrims came to York to worship at his shrines, which became bigger and grander over time and were reportedly the scene for many miracles.

“As you would expect, the shrines were beautifully made by the finest craftsmen in the north.

“We are delighted to be able to put some of the most interesting and incredible parts of the shrines on show together for the first time in four centuries.”

Mr Morrison said that the older of the shrines would originally have been positioned above the tomb of St William in York Minster.

It includes figures which have been carved in great detail.

The 15th century shrine would have originally been positioned near the Minster’s high altar.

It was larger than the older shrine, and contained relics within it.

Following the Dissolution Of The Monasteries between 1536 and 1540, the shrines were hidden underground.

The Yorkshire Museum has put the 15th century shrine on show before but since then, more of the shrine has been uncovered, along with more of the 14th century example.

It is the combination of the parts, which have been painstakingly restored, which will make up the new display.