Bridgwater Friary facts for kids
.jpg)
A dotted line on the road marks the boundary of the friary
|
|
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Order | Franciscan |
| Established | 1245 |
| Disestablished | 1538 |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | William Briwere |
| Site | |
| Location | Bridgwater, Somerset, England |
Bridgwater Friary was a special kind of religious house called a Franciscan monastery. It was located in Bridgwater, a town in Somerset, England. This friary was started in 1245 and closed down in 1538.
Contents
What Was Bridgwater Friary?
Bridgwater Friary was a home for Franciscan friars. These friars were a group of Christian religious people. They lived together and dedicated their lives to prayer and helping others. The friary was founded by a person named William Briwere. It began in 1245, but it was moved from an earlier location.
Building the Friary
Over the years, more buildings were added to the friary. New parts were built in 1278 and again in 1284. The main church at the friary was rebuilt much later, in the 15th century. It was officially opened and blessed in 1445.
The Friary's End
The friary operated for many years. However, in 1538, it was closed down. This happened during a time in English history called the dissolution of the monasteries. During this period, many monasteries and religious houses across England were closed by the government. After it closed, Bridgwater Friary was turned into a large house, known as a mansion.
What Remains Today?
Today, not much of the original friary can be seen. People have tried to dig up the site to find out more about it. During these digs, they found decorated tiles and pieces of old buildings. These discoveries are now kept at the Blake Museum in Bridgwater. The only part of the friary that is still visible is an old doorway. You can find this doorway on Silver Street in Bridgwater.
A Mystery Feature
The area where the friary once stood also has a long, straight line across it. Experts believe this line might be very old. It is thought to date back to the English Civil War. This war took place in the 1600s, long after the friary closed.
