The Great London Abbey Hunt: More Monasteries Than You Can Shake a Crozier At?
Ah, London. A city steeped in history, where black cabs zoom past iconic landmarks and tourists flock to Buckingham Palace for a glimpse of the corgis (or is it the Queen?). But beneath the bustling streets and Big Ben's booming chimes lies a secret history: a time of monks and monasteries, of chanting and candlelight.
You might be wondering, amidst the tube rides and curry houses, how many abbeys are there hiding in London? Buckle up, history buffs, because we're about to delve into the fascinating world of London's lost (and not-so-lost) abbeys.
The Abbey Tally: More Than You Bargained For (Probably)
Here's the thing: pinning down an exact number of London abbeys is trickier than dodging pigeons in Trafalgar Square. Monasteries come in all shapes and sizes, from grand abbeys to smaller priories. Some have been dissolved (thanks, Henry VIII!), while others remain in use today, albeit in a slightly different guise.
But fear not, intrepid explorer! Wikipedia, that font of all knowledge (and sometimes questionable cat videos), tells us there are around 30 monastic houses listed for London, including some real doozies with names like "Lesnes Abbey" and "Kilburn Priory" (sounds like a character from a fantasy novel, right?).
The Mystery of the Missing Monasteries: Where Did They All Go?
So, if there were once 30 abbeys buzzing with monks, why don't we see them all towering over the city skyline? Well, the answer involves a dramatic historical event known as the Dissolution of the Monasteries (cue dramatic music). In the 16th century, King Henry VIII decided he wasn't a huge fan of the Catholic Church and its vast landholdings. The result? Many monasteries were shut down, their land seized, and their buildings repurposed or left to crumble.
London's Lingering Abbeys: A Glimpse into the Past
But not all hope is lost for the abbey enthusiast! Several London sites still hold the echoes of their monastic past. Westminster Abbey, for example, is still a functioning church and a famous burial ground for British royalty. Other remnants include The Charterhouse, now a posh hotel, and Temple Church, a beautiful example of medieval architecture.
So, while London might not boast a ton of full-fledged abbeys anymore, there's still plenty to explore for the curious history buff. With a bit of imagination, you can almost hear the chanting monks and smell the incense as you wander these historic sites.
How To Abbey Hunt in London: Your Essential Guide (Because Apparently That's a Thing Now)
Feeling inspired to embark on your own London abbey adventure? Here's a quick guide to get you started:
- Hit the Books (or the Internet): Do your research before you roam. There are plenty of resources online and in libraries to help you track down the remnants of London's monastic past.
- Comfy Shoes are Key: Exploring London often involves a fair bit of walking. So ditch the stilettos and lace up those trainers – your feet will thank you.
- Pack Your Imagination: While some abbeys are well-preserved, others are just a shadow of their former selves. Use your imagination to reconstruct the past and picture the monks going about their daily routines.
- Don't Forget Your Camera: Capture those historic (and maybe slightly spooky) abbey vibes!
- Embrace the Adventure: London is full of surprises. You never know what hidden gem you might stumble upon while abbey hunting.
Abbey FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered
How to identify an abbey in London?
Look for clues like historic buildings, mentions in historical records, or even street names that might reference a former monastery (think Abbey Road or Priory Park).
How to become a London abbey expert?
Read books, explore online resources, and visit the remaining abbey sites. Join a historical society or take a guided walking tour focused on London's monastic past.
How many monks lived in a London abbey?
The number varied depending on the size and wealth of the abbey. Some might have housed just a handful of monks, while others could have hundreds.
How spooky are London's abbeys?
That depends on your tolerance for the spooky! Some abbey ruins have a certain melancholic charm, while others might give you the chills (especially at night).
How much does it cost to visit a London abbey?
