Panfield Priory
Panfield Priory was a small Augustinian priory located in Panfield, Essex, England. Founded in the late 11th century by Waleran Fitz Ranulph, it operated as an "alien house" dependent on St. Etienne Abbey in Caen. The priory was dissolved in the early 15th century, with its property eventually granted to Sir Giles Caple following the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Key Facts
- ›Founded between 1069 and 1070 by Waleran Fitz Ranulph.
- ›Belonged to the Augustinian Canons Regular.
- ›Was an "alien house" subordinate to St. Etienne Abbey in Caen.
- ›Dissolved in 1413.
- ›Traces of its foundations have been found north of Great Priory Farm.
- ›The property was granted to Sir Giles Caple in 1538-39.
- Foundations Located North of Great Priory Farm
Waleran Fitz Ranulph
Foundation of the Priory, Dissolution of the Priory, Grant To Christchurch, Canterbury, Grant To Sir Giles Caple
About Panfield Priory
Panfield Priory was a religious institution situated in Panfield, Essex, England, belonging to the Augustinian Canons Regular. Its establishment dates to the late 11th century, specifically between 1069 and 1070, with Waleran Fitz Ranulph credited as its founder. The priory operated as a small "alien house," meaning it was dependent on a larger abbey located abroad, in this case, St. Etienne Abbey in Caen, France.
Historical Context
The priory maintained a modest community, consisting of only a few monks. Its existence as an alien house meant its resources and governance were tied to its continental parent institution. This status often made such priories vulnerable during periods of conflict between England and France.
Dissolution and Later History
Panfield Priory was dissolved in 1413. Following its dissolution, the property underwent several transfers. In 1472, it was granted to Christchurch, Canterbury. Much later, as part of the broader Dissolution of the Monasteries, the property was granted to Sir Giles Caple in 1538–39.
Archaeological Traces
Today, no structures from Panfield Priory remain visible above ground. Archaeological investigations have located traces of its foundations in a field situated north of Great Priory Farm, marking the site of this former monastic establishment.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Panfield Priory founded?
Panfield Priory was founded between 1069 and 1070. The exact year is noted with a slight range in historical records.
What religious order did Panfield Priory belong to?
Panfield Priory was a priory of Augustinian Canons Regular. This order followed the Rule of Saint Augustine.
What happened to Panfield Priory after its dissolution?
After its dissolution in 1413, Panfield Priory's property was granted to Christchurch, Canterbury in 1472. Later, in 1538-39, it was granted to Sir Giles Caple.
Can you still see Panfield Priory today?
No, nothing of Panfield Priory can be seen above ground today. Traces of its foundations were located in a field north of Great Priory Farm.
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