Greyfriars, Gloucester facts for kids

The remains of the church from the 1500s.

Greyfriars in Gloucester, England, was a special kind of religious house called a friary. It was started around the year 1231. Friaries were homes for groups of friars, who were like monks but lived among regular people to help them.

What Was Greyfriars?

Greyfriars was a home for Franciscan friars. These friars were also known as "Grey Friars" because of the color of their robes. They were part of a Christian group that believed in living simply and helping others. They often lived in towns and cities, unlike monks who usually lived in quiet monasteries far away.

Building a Friary in Gloucester

The friary in Gloucester was built in the 1200s. It included a church where the friars prayed and other buildings where they lived and worked. These places were important centers for learning and helping the poor in the community.

A New Look for the Church

Around 1518, a very important local family, the Berkeleys of Berkeley Castle, paid to have the church rebuilt. They chose a popular style of the time called Perpendicular Gothic. This style is known for its tall, straight lines and large windows. It made the church look very grand and impressive.

What Happened to the Friary?

Later, the rest of the friary buildings, besides the church, were taken down. This happened during a time in England when many religious houses were closed. Today, you can still see parts of the old church, which reminds us of the friars who lived and worked there many centuries ago.