St. Radegund's Abbey facts for kids
St. Radegund's Abbey was an old monastery near Dover in southeast England. It was named after Radegund, a princess from the 500s. She was married to King Chlothar I, but she chose to live a simple, religious life and help others. Today, parts of the abbey buildings are used as a farm.
The Abbey's Beginning
The abbey was started in 1191. King Richard I gave the land for it. Monks from a group called the Premonstratensian Canons came from France to build it. Construction began in 1191 and took about 50 years to finish. The abbey controlled several local churches, which helped it financially. However, the location itself was quite difficult to live in.
Life at the Abbey
By the late 1200s, the monks started doing more everyday jobs. For example, they helped supervise the building of Dover Castle. Over time, the abbey buildings began to fall apart. By the late 1300s, only 8 monks were still living there.
What Happened to the Abbey?
In 1538, the abbey was closed down. This was part of a big event called the Dissolution of the Monasteries. During this time, King Henry VIII closed many monasteries in England. Much of the stone from St. Radegund's Abbey was taken away. It was used to help build Sandgate Castle.
The Abbey Today
In 1590, a man named Simon Edolph bought the abbey site. He turned the old dining hall (called the refectory) into a farmhouse. This farmhouse is still standing today and is a very important historic building. The other ruins, including a part that now acts as a gate to the farmhouse, are also protected historic sites.
