Canterbury Blackfriars
Christian·England·partially extant, community use·13th century
Canterbury Blackfriars was a Dominican priory established in 1237 by King Henry III, situated on both sides of the River Stour in Canterbury. Despite its suppression in 1538 and subsequent demolition of many structures, some buildings persist and are utilized for community functions, including the refectory which has served various purposes from a meeting house to an art gallery.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1237 by King Henry III.
- ›Belonged to the Dominican Order.
- ›Located on both sides of the River Stour in Canterbury.
- ›Suppressed in 1538.
- ›The refectory building still stands and is used for community purposes.
- ›The guest house building also survives and is used as a community hall.
Refectory Building, Guest House Building
Blackfriars, Canterbury
Henry Iii
Founded In 1237, Suppressed In 1538
About Canterbury Blackfriars
Canterbury Blackfriars was a significant priory of the Dominican Order, established in the city of Canterbury in 1237. King Henry III played a crucial role in its founding, granting the Dominicans land, substantial funds, and timber to construct their church and priory. The priory's unique layout spanned both sides of the River Stour, positioned in the western part of the city, near the site of the present-day Marlowe Theatre.
History and Survival
The priory's active monastic life concluded with its suppression in 1538, after which its buildings were repurposed, notably as a weaving factory. Over time, many structures were demolished. However, architectural remnants of Canterbury Blackfriars endure to this day, serving contemporary community needs. The refectory, located on the east bank of the River Stour, has a notable history of use, functioning as an Anabaptist and later Unitarian meeting house from 1640 until 1912. Following restoration in the 1920s, it was acquired by the Cleary Foundation in 1982 and gifted to The King's School to be used as an art gallery. Similarly, the guest house on the west bank, after serving as a private residence and furniture store, was restored in 1979 by local residents and is now utilized as a scout and community hall.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Canterbury Blackfriars founded?
Canterbury Blackfriars was founded in 1237. King Henry III granted the Dominicans land, £500, and timber for construction.
What religious order founded Canterbury Blackfriars?
The priory was founded by the Dominican Order. They are also known as the Blackfriars.
What happened to Canterbury Blackfriars after its suppression?
The priory was suppressed in 1538. It was subsequently used as a weaving factory, and many buildings were gradually demolished over the following century.
Are there any original buildings of Canterbury Blackfriars still standing?
Yes, the refectory on the east bank of the River Stour survives and has been used for various community purposes. The guest house on the west bank also remains and is used as a scout and community hall.
Where was Canterbury Blackfriars located?
The priory was located in the west of Canterbury, on both sides of the River Stour. Its site was centered on the modern Blackfriars Street, adjacent to where the Marlowe Theatre now stands.
Related Monasteries
Beeston Regis Priory
Beeston Regis Priory was an Augustinian priory founded in 1216 by Lady Isabel de Cressey. Dissolved in 1538, its remains, particularly the priory church nave and transept, are a Grade I listed ruin. The priory's suppression is believed to have influenced the founding of Gresham's School, and its cloister garden is now part of Priory Farm.
Beverley Blackfriars
Beverley Blackfriars, also known as The Old Friary, originated as a Dominican priory established around 1240. Despite a devastating fire in 1449 and its dissolution in 1539, parts of the priory, particularly the guesthouse, survived. After centuries of varied private ownership and near demolition, significant preservation efforts led to its current status as a Grade II* listed building, housing a youth hostel since 1984.
Bristol Blackfriars
Bristol Blackfriars was a Dominican priory founded in the early 13th century by Maurice de Gaunt. Situated in Broadmead, Bristol, it played a role in religious life, notably burying Llywelyn ap Dafydd, the last native Prince of Wales. Following its dissolution in the 16th century, the priory's structures were adapted for various secular uses, including guildhalls, a workhouse, and a Quaker meeting house, with remnants surviving to this day.