Sopwell Priory facts for kids

Sopwell Priory, also known as Sopwell Nunnery, was a special place built a long time ago, around 1140. It was located in Hertfordshire, England. It was a home for Benedictine nuns, who were women dedicated to a religious life. The priory was founded by Geoffrey de Gorham, who was the abbot (leader) of St Albans Abbey. Sopwell Priory was like a smaller branch or "cell" of the larger St Albans Abbey.

The Story of Sopwell Priory

How Sopwell Priory Began

Sopwell Priory was built around the year 1140. It was founded by Geoffrey de Gorham, who was the abbot of St Albans Abbey. An abbot is like the head of a monastery. The priory was named the Priory of St Mary of Sopwell. It was a "cell," which means it was a smaller part of the bigger St Albans Abbey.

Famous People Connected to the Priory

One important person linked to Sopwell Priory was Juliana Berners. She was a prioress, which is the leader of a priory for nuns, during the 1400s. Many people believe she wrote a famous book called the Boke of St Albans. This book was published in 1486 and covered topics like hunting, fishing, and heraldry (the study of coats of arms).

What Happened to the Priory?

In 1539, a big change happened across England called the Dissolution of the monasteries. This was when King Henry VIII closed down many monasteries and priories. After St Albans Abbey was closed, Sopwell Priory was bought by Sir Richard Lee. He was a military engineer and a commander for King Henry VIII.

Sir Richard Lee decided to take down the priory buildings. He then built a new house on the same spot. He called his new home Lee Hall. Later, the house was renamed Sopwell House.

Sopwell Priory Today

Visiting the Ruins

Today, you can still see the ruins of Sopwell House, which was built on the site of the old priory. These ruins are managed by St Albans Museums. They are located on Cottonmill Lane, close to the center of St Albans. The ruins are a reminder of the long history of this special place.