Watton Priory facts for kids
Watton Priory was a special kind of religious house called a priory. It belonged to the Gilbertine Order, which was a unique group of monks and nuns in England. This priory was located in a place called Watton in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England.
It was a "double monastery," meaning it had separate areas for both monks and nuns living together in one community. A man named Eustace fitz John started Watton Priory in the year 1150.
Contents
History of Watton Priory
Founding a New Religious Home
Watton Priory began in 1150, thanks to Eustace fitz John. He wanted to create a place where people could dedicate their lives to God. The Gilbertine Order was special because it was the only religious order founded in England.
Important People and Events
Over the years, Watton Priory saw many interesting events. One notable visitor was Marjorie Bruce, a young Scottish princess. She was held there by King Edward I of England after being captured. She stayed at the priory for eight years until King Edward I passed away.
The Priory's End
Like many other religious houses in England, Watton Priory was closed down. This happened in 1539 by order of King Henry VIII. This period is known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries. The last leader of the priory was Robert Holgate. He later became an important church leader, serving as the Archbishop of York.
What Watton Priory Looks Like Today
The buildings you can see at Watton Priory now are very old. Most of them were built between the 1300s and the 1400s. Later, in the 1800s, a house was added to the site. Today, Watton Priory is recognized as a Grade I listed building. This means it is a very important historical site that needs to be protected.
The Story of the Nun of Watton
A famous story from Watton Priory is about a young nun. Her story was written down by a saint named Ailred of Rievaulx. This young woman had joined the priory when she was very little. As she grew up, she found the strict rules of monastic life very difficult. Her story shows some of the challenges people faced living in these religious communities long ago.
Burials at the Priory
Some people were buried at Watton Priory. One person known to be buried there was:
- William de Vesci (d.1253)
Images for kids
-
Watton Abbey
