Kidwelly Priory facts for kids
Kidwelly Priory was an important religious building in Kidwelly, Wales. It was a type of monastery called a Benedictine abbey. In Welsh, Kidwelly is known as Cydweli.
This priory has a long history. It started as a place of worship many centuries ago. Today, parts of the old priory are still used as a church.
The Priory's Beginnings
The priory was officially started by a man named Roger. He was a bishop of Salisbury and lived a long time ago, dying in 1139. Roger was part of the Normans who came to England.
However, even before Roger, this spot was special. People who followed Celtic Christianity used to worship there. They honored a saint named Saint Cadog at this very location. So, it was a holy place for a long time.
Life and Changes at Kidwelly Priory
Kidwelly Priory was connected to a larger monastery called Sherborne Abbey. It was like a smaller branch of Sherborne. Even though many records talk about Kidwelly Priory, it seems it stayed quite small.
The priory continued for many years. But in 1539, a big change happened. Henry VIII, who was the King of England at the time, decided to close many monasteries. This event is known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Kidwelly Priory was one of the places that closed down during this time.
Kidwelly Priory Today
After it was closed as a priory, the building continued to be used. Today, it serves as a local church called St Mary's Church.
Much of the church building you see today is very old. It dates back to the 1300s, around the year 1320. This means you can still see parts of the original priory building. It is a great example of history that is still in use!
