Cambridge Blackfriars
Cambridge Blackfriars is a Dominican priory in Cambridgeshire, England, with a history spanning centuries. Originally established in 1238, it was dissolved in 1538 during the Reformation and subsequently re-established in 1938. The modern priory continues to serve as a center for Dominican life and, since 2000, functions as the novitiate house for the English Province of the Order of Preachers.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1238 and dissolved in 1538.
- ›Re-established in 1938 at a new location in Cambridge.
- ›Became the novitiate house for the English Province of the Order of Preachers in 2000.
- ›The medieval friary's site was later used for Emmanuel College.
- ›Incorporates 14th-century work from the original friary in Emmanuel College's Front Court.
- Novitiate House of the English Province of the Order of Preachers
- Incorporation of 14th-Century Work From the Original Friary At Emmanuel College
Gregory Dodds, John Scory, Edward Bullough, Arthur Stanley Ramsey
Dissolution of the Friary In 1538, Re-Establishment of the Priory In 1938, Became Novitiate House In 2000
About Cambridge Blackfriars
Cambridge Blackfriars is a Dominican priory located in Cambridgeshire, England, with a rich and complex history that stretches back to the medieval period. The priory traces its origins to a Dominican foundation established before 1238. This original friary operated for over three centuries until its dissolution in 1538 as part of the English Reformation.
Following its dissolution, the site of the medieval friary was repurposed, notably becoming the location for the founding of Emmanuel College in 1584. Remnants of the 14th-century friary, including work in its North Range and Hall, are still incorporated into the college's Front Court, offering a tangible link to its past.
The Dominican presence in Cambridge was re-established in 1938, marking a significant revival of the order in the city. The modern priory was founded at a new location on Buckingham Road, close to Murray Edwards College. This contemporary institution continues to serve as a vibrant center for Dominican life and ministry. In 2000, Cambridge Blackfriars took on an additional important role, becoming the novitiate house for the English Province of the Order of Preachers, responsible for the formation of new Dominican friars.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cambridge Blackfriars originally founded?
The medieval Dominican Friary, which predates Cambridge Blackfriars, was founded before 1238. The current priory was re-established in 1938.
What happened to the original Dominican Friary?
The original friary was dissolved in 1538. At the time of its dissolution, it had a prior and fifteen other friars. The site was later used to establish Emmanuel College.
Where is the current Cambridge Blackfriars located?
The current priory is located at Buckingham Road, Cambridge, England, near Murray Edwards College. It was established on this new site in 1938.
What is the significance of Cambridge Blackfriars today?
Today, Cambridge Blackfriars operates as an active Dominican priory. Since 2000, it has served as the novitiate house for the English Province of the Order of Preachers.
Are there any remnants of the medieval friary at Emmanuel College?
Yes, Emmanuel College's Front Court incorporates 14th-century work from the original Dominican Friary. This includes elements in the North Range and Hall.
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