Blackfriars, St Andrews facts for kids
_20080503.jpg)
Remains of the friary
|
|
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Established | 15th century (uncertain) |
| Disestablished | June 1559 |
| Dedicated to | Virgin Mary |
| Diocese | St Andrews |
| Site | |
| Coordinates | NO 50764 16565 |
| Visible remains | Side apse (pictured) |
Blackfriars is the common name for a special religious building in St Andrews, Scotland. It was once a Dominican friary, which is a type of monastery where friars lived and worked. This friary was dedicated to St Mary. It existed during the later Middle Ages. Today, "Blackfriars" also refers to the old ruins of this building that you can still see.
Contents
Discovering Blackfriars' Past
Many old buildings have interesting stories, and Blackfriars is no different. Learning about its past helps us understand life in medieval Scotland. This section will explore when the friary was built and who helped create it.
When Was Blackfriars Built?
Some old stories say the friary was built in the late 1200s. However, these stories are not quite true. Historians believe the friary was actually started around the mid-1400s. The first leader, called a prior, was recorded in November 1464. This date gives us a good idea of when the friary truly began.
Who Started the Friary?
Before the full friary was built, there might have been a small chapel or a place for travelers. James Beaton, who was the archbishop of St Andrews, said that he and the archbishops before him helped found the friary. This means it was likely started by important church leaders. The friary was probably needed because of the growing University of St Andrews. It provided a place for study and prayer.
Growth and Changes at Blackfriars
Over the years, the Blackfriars friary grew and changed. It became a more important religious center in the area. However, it also faced challenges and eventually closed down.
How the Friary Grew
In the early 1500s, the friary became much bigger. The number of friars living there increased from two to five. In 1519, the Blackfriars friary took over two other religious houses. These were the Hospital of St Nicholas and another Dominican friary in Cupar. Some friars from Cupar moved to St Andrews. Another friary in St Monans was partly joined with Blackfriars. Friars were allowed to stay at St Monans until they passed away.
The End of the Friary
The friary faced serious damage in 1547. This happened when forces led by Norman Leslie attacked it. Later, between June 14 and June 22, 1559, the friars had to leave their damaged home. This event was part of a bigger change happening in Scotland. It was linked to the Scottish Reformation, a time when many people wanted to change the old Catholic ways. The land and buildings of the friary were given to the town of St Andrews by Queen Mary on April 17, 1567.
Today, you can still see parts of the old friary. The remains of a curved apse (a rounded part of a church) are visible. They are located where Bell Street meets South Street, right outside Madras College.
