Aldgate Priory

Holy Trinity Priory (Christchurch Aldgate)

Holy Trinity Priory, also known by the name Christchurch Aldgate, was an Augustinian priory of Austin canons (often referred to as Black Canons) established in London around 1108. Its foundation was initiated by Queen Matilda of Scotland, consort of King Henry I, who received guidance from Archbishop Anselm of Canterbury.

History and Significance

The priory held a notable position, closely linked to the English monarchy. Queen Matilda of Scotland's involvement extended to donating the entire soke of East Smithfield to the priory by 1115, which in turn led to the prior holding an ex officio position as an Alderman of London. Later, Queen Matilda of Boulogne continued this royal patronage, with two of her children interred within its grounds. During the 12th century, under the leadership of Prior Peter of Cornwall, the priory gained renown as a center of learning.

Development and Dissolution

Initially, the priory was intended to be subordinate to St Botolph's Priory in Colchester. However, this authority was contested, and a legal decision in 1223 by the bishop of London established Holy Trinity's independence from visitation by the canons and priors of St Botolph's. The priory's existence concluded with its dissolution in February 1532, when it was surrendered to King Henry VIII. Subsequently, the property was transferred to Thomas Duke of Norfolk in 1544, leading to its area becoming known as The Duke's Place. It was later sold to the Corporation of London in 1592.

Legacy

Little of the original priory buildings survive today. Historical accounts, such as those by John Stow and in the revised Monasticon, document its existence. Architectural remnants are minimal, with only a few pointed arches noted within a modern office building at the corner of Aldgate and Mitre Street. The layout of Mitre Street and Mitre Square still roughly reflects the original dimensions of the priory church nave and cloister, respectively.