Carmelite Friary, Winchester facts for kids
The Carmelite Friary, Winchester was a special religious house in Hampshire, England. It was home to a group of friars called the Carmelites. This friary was started in 1278. It closed down in the early 1500s during a big change in England's history.
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What was the Carmelite Friary?
A friary was a type of religious building. It was similar to a monastery, but with a key difference. Monks usually lived apart from society in monasteries. Friars, however, lived in friaries within towns and cities. They worked among the people. The Carmelite Friary in Winchester was a home for these friars. They dedicated their lives to prayer and helping the community.
Who were the Carmelites?
The Carmelites are a religious order. They are also known as the "Order of the Brothers of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel." Their name comes from Mount Carmel in the Holy Land. This is where the order first began. Carmelites are one of the main groups of friars. They were often called "Whitefriars" because of the white cloaks they wore over their brown habits.
What did friars do?
Friars like the Carmelites had an important role in medieval society. Unlike monks who often stayed in their monasteries, friars traveled and preached. They lived by begging for food and money. This was part of their vow of poverty. They taught people about their faith. They also helped the poor and sick. Friars were often seen as closer to the common people. They were different from the wealthier monasteries.
Why did it close down?
The Carmelite Friary in Winchester closed down in the early 1500s. This happened during a time known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries. This was a major event in English history. King Henry VIII decided to close down many monasteries and friaries across England. He took control of their lands and wealth. This decision changed the religious landscape of England forever. The Carmelite Friary, like many others, was suppressed. This means it was officially closed and its property taken by the Crown.
