It is the thought to be the first time lifestock have set foot on the holy ground in living memory.
And the flock of rare ancient sheep were given royal treatment when they appeared at Exeter Cathedral today.
The Whiteface Dartmoor sheep graced and grazed in and around the historic landmark to celebrate the rich traditions of farming on the moorland.
The endangered breed that are indigenous to the moor face an uncertain future - just like its hill farmers.
Chris Caunter, chairman of Whiteface Dartmoor sheep breeders associated, said: "We are celebrating this rare and ancient breed and recreating something from the past. The wealth of this city and the cathedral was built on the wool industry, so we want to highlight the vital role they have played in Exeter's history.
"People have been delighted to see the sheep here. Nobody can remember this happening in their lifetime."
The flock were accompanied by a traditional shepherd's hut aiming to illustrate the sights and sounds of the moor, its sheep and the narratives of hill farmers.
Artist Andy Visser, who created the hut content, said: "The moors and farms of Dartmoor are truly amazing. My involvement with this project has opened my eyes to the richness of this world. I hope that the shepherd's hut will do the same for many others. It is such an important part of Devon – we must do what we can to ensure it survives and thrives."
The initiative is part of the OneHutFull project which aims to help celebrate the farming on Dartmoor and highlight the plight of the national park's wildlife.
Paula Wolton, project leader, said: "OneHutFull aims not just to help people understand how precious hill farming is on Dartmoor, but to inspire the start up of new enterprises and businesses to ensure a healthy future for the farmers and their animals."
The project, running until Saturday, was supported by a grant of £36,300 awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
The Very Revd Dr Jonathan Draper, Dean of Exeter Cathedral, said: "Wool forges a strong link between Exeter and Dartmoor, both depending and flourishing on its production and trade in past times. Like the cathedral, hill farming on Dartmoor is a very important part of Devon's heritage."
The Whiteface Dartmoor sheep descends from the native heath sheep, which grazed Dartmoor in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Their numbers have declined rapidly over the years, and they are currently classified 'at risk'.
