St Edmund's Priory, Cambridge facts for kids

St Edmund's Priory, Cambridge was an old religious building in Cambridgeshire, England. It was a type of monastery, a place where monks lived and prayed. The priory was started in the year 1291 and closed down in 1539.

What Was a Priory?

A priory was a kind of monastery, which is a community where religious people, often monks or nuns, lived together. They dedicated their lives to prayer, study, and work. Priories were usually smaller than abbeys, which were larger and more important monasteries.

Life in a Priory

Life in a priory followed a strict daily routine. Monks would spend their days praying, studying religious texts, and working. They often helped the local community by providing education, caring for the sick, or offering shelter to travelers. Priories were important centers of learning and culture in medieval times.

The Priory's Beginning

St Edmund's Priory was established in 1291. This means it was built and started its operations in that year. During this time, many religious houses like priories were founded across England. They played a big role in the lives of people in the Middle Ages.

The End of the Priory

St Edmund's Priory closed down in 1539. This was part of a big historical event known as the "Dissolution of the Monasteries." During this time, many monasteries, priories, and other religious houses in England were closed by the government. Their lands and buildings were taken over. This marked a major change in the country's history and its religious practices.