Old Buckenham Priory facts for kids
Old Buckenham Priory was a special religious building called an Augustinian priory. It was built in a place called Old Buckenham in Norfolk, England. This priory was actually built on the spot where Old Buckenham Castle used to stand.
A priory is like a monastery, but often smaller. It was home to a group of religious men called canons. These canons followed the rules of Saint Augustine.
Building the Priory
The priory was started around the year 1146. It was founded by William de Albini and his wife, Queen Adeliza. Queen Adeliza was the widow of King Henry I.
When they started the priory, they gave it the land where the old Buckenham Castle was. They also gave it control over two churches in the area. The priory was dedicated to three important figures: St Mary, St James, and All Saints.
Life at the Priory
Over time, the priory received more gifts of land and money. By the year 1291, it owned property in 42 different villages in Norfolk.
The priory was home to a leader called a prior. There were also usually eight to ten canons living there. Many other people worked at the priory too, helping with daily tasks.
The Priory's End
Old Buckenham Priory was closed down in 1537. This happened during a big event in English history called the Dissolution of the Monasteries. This was when King Henry VIII closed many religious houses across England.
After the priory closed, a man named Sir Edmund Knevett was given the right to use the priory's lands. Today, the site where the priory once stood is part of a place called Abbey Farm.
What Remains Today?
Sadly, not much of the priory is left above the ground. You can only see one small piece of stone and mortar from the original building.
Burials
- Warin de Munchensy and his wife Agnes FitzPayn
