Kilve Chantry facts for kids
 |
|
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Established | 1329 |
| Disestablished | Late 14th century |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | Simon de Furneaux |
| Site | |
| Location | Kilve, Somerset, England |
Kilve Chantry was an old religious building in Kilve, Somerset, England. It was a special place where monks prayed a long time ago. Today, parts of it are still standing as ruins.
The Story of Kilve Chantry
How It Started
Kilve Chantry began in 1329. A man named Simon de Furneaux started it. He hired five monks to pray for him. These prayers were called "Mass." Some of the priests who worked at the Chantry also served the local church in Kilve.
Later Years and Ruin
The Chantry stopped being used for religious purposes in the late 14th century. It seems the building became a ruin long before many other monasteries were closed down in England. For hundreds of years, the Chantry was used as a barn for a nearby farm.
The building continued to be used for many years. Some people think it was even used by smugglers. In 1848, a fire damaged the Chantry. This fire was likely started to destroy evidence of illegal brandy.
What Remains Today?
Some parts of the Chantry complex are still standing. These parts are now known as 'Chantry' and 'Priory Cottages'. However, a large part of the building, called the solar wing, is now just a ruin.
Kilve Chantry is a very important historical site. It is listed as a Grade II* listed building. This means it is a building of special interest and importance. It is also a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This protects it from being changed without permission. The site is currently on the English Heritage's Heritage at Risk Register. It is listed as being in "very bad" condition. It has the highest priority rating, "A", for needing urgent care.
