Buckfast Monastery
Buckfast Abbey is an active Benedictine monastery located in Buckfast, near Buckfastleigh, Devon, England. Originally founded as a Benedictine abbey in 1018, it later became Savignac and then Cistercian before its dissolution in 1539. Refounded by French Benedictines in 1882, it was formally reinstated as an abbey in 1902 and has since been rebuilt, most notably its abbey church completed in 1938. The abbey is known for its self-sufficiency, producing goods like Buckfast Tonic Wine and being the origin of the Buckfast bee.
Key Facts
- ›First founded as a Benedictine monastery in 1018.
- ›Became a Savignac, then Cistercian, abbey in 1134.
- ›Dissolved in 1539 and largely demolished.
- ›Refounded by French Benedictines in 1882 and reinstated as an abbey in 1902.
- ›Its current abbey church was constructed between 1906 and 1938.
- ›Known for producing Buckfast Tonic Wine and the Buckfast bee.
Norman Transitional, Early English, Gothic
Buckfast Abbey Church, Buckfast Tonic Wine, Buckfast Bee, Abbot's Tower, Grange Restaurant, Conference and Seminar Centre, Gardens
Anscar Vonier, Brother Adam
Dissolution of the Monasteries, Refounding By French Benedictines, Reinstatement As An Abbey, Completion of Abbey Church, Millennium Bell Ringing Festival Hosted
About Buckfast Monastery
Buckfast Abbey
Buckfast Abbey is a living Benedictine monastery situated in the village of Buckfast, near Buckfastleigh in Devon, England. Its history is long and complex, marked by periods of flourishing religious life, destruction, and diligent reconstruction. The site first became home to an abbey in 1018, initially founded as a Benedictine monastery. This was followed by a Savignac abbey in 1134, which later transitioned into a Cistercian one. The medieval abbey achieved considerable wealth through its landholdings, fisheries, and wool trade, becoming one of the wealthiest abbeys in the south-west of England by the 14th century.
History and Reconstruction
The original monastic community was dissolved in 1539 under King Henry VIII, leading to the demolition of most of the abbey's structures. The site lay in ruins and was subsequently used as a stone quarry, with later attempts to build secular residences upon it. A significant chapter in its history began in 1882 when French Benedictine monks purchased the site and commenced a process of rebuilding. The current abbey church, a grand cruciform structure, was constructed between 1906 and 1938, largely on the footprint of the former Cistercian abbey, incorporating elements in Norman Transitional and Early English styles. Buckfast was formally reinstated as an abbey in 1902, and the community joined the English Benedictine Congregation in 1960.
Modern Significance and Activities
Today, Buckfast Abbey remains an active monastery with a resident community of monks. It is known for its self-sufficiency, operating a farm, and producing goods such as Buckfast Tonic Wine and honey. The abbey is also renowned as the origin of the Buckfast bee, a strain of honeybee developed by Brother Adam, which has gained international recognition for its breeding qualities. The abbey grounds are open to visitors, featuring gardens, a conference centre, and a restaurant. The abbey church, dedicated to St Mary, is a focal point for visitors and worshippers, and the abbey's choir maintains a tradition of sacred music.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Buckfast Abbey first established?
Buckfast Abbey was first established as a Benedictine monastery in 1018. It was later re-established in its current location in 1134 as a Savignac abbey, which subsequently became Cistercian.
What happened to Buckfast Abbey after its dissolution?
Following its dissolution in 1539, the abbey site was granted to private individuals and was largely stripped and used as a stone quarry. Later, a mansion house and wool mill were constructed on the site.
When was Buckfast Abbey refounded?
The site was purchased by French Benedictines in 1882, and monastic life was restored. Buckfast was formally reinstated as an abbey in 1902.
What is Buckfast Abbey known for producing?
Buckfast Abbey is notably known for producing Buckfast Tonic Wine, a fortified wine that has been made since the 1890s. It is also the origin of the Buckfast bee, developed by Brother Adam.
Is Buckfast Abbey still an active monastery?
Yes, Buckfast Abbey is an active Benedictine monastery. As of 2020, it housed 13 monks, and it has a functioning community.
What architectural styles are present at Buckfast Abbey?
The current abbey church, constructed between 1906 and 1938, largely revives the late 12th-century style, incorporating Norman Transitional and Early English styles. The Blessed Sacrament chapel, added in 1968, is in a more modern style. Some earlier structures, like the 14th-century abbot's tower, have been incorporated.
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