Lanthony Priory, Black Mountains
The priory dates back to around the year 1100, when Norman nobleman Walter de Lacy reputedly came upon a ruined chapel of St. David in this location, and was inspired to devote himself to solitary prayer and study. He was joined by Ersinius, a former Chaplain to Queen Matilda, the wife of King Henry I, and then a band of followers. A church was built on the site, dedicated to St John the Baptist, and consecrated in 1108. By 1118, a group of around 40 monks from England founded there a priory of Canons Regular, the first in Wales.
- Church of St Mary The Virgin. This outstanding medieval church was built as a result of a Norman lady having a vision of the Virgin Mary whilst in a field in which the church now stands. Its interior features a wooden gallery and ancient font.The graveyard contains two gravestones which were carved by the illustrator Eric Gill, who lived in the village for most of his life and used to enrapture audiences with his readings from Malory in the churchyard.It is a very peaceful spot and the church is always open.
- Church of St Mary the Virgin graveyard. Gravestone dating back to 1736, many more with weather damage probably older, beautiful place and I will certainly revisit.
3 Responses to “Lanthony Priory, Black Mountains”
The mist through the archways, and the gate in the crumbling wall, are my favorites. What is the cement structure that looks like a covered well? I always enjoy your perspective on the landscape.
Hi, In the church (St Davids, Llanthony) what looks like a well is in-fact a Font, it appears to date back to the 1st century, it is a very beautiful place to visit, very isolated, we (my dog and I) were very lucky to have such a beautiful day to visit the church and Priory. The priory dates back to around the year 1100, when Norman nobleman Walter de Lacy reputedly came upon a ruined chapel of St. David in this location, and was inspired to devote himself to solitary prayer and study. He was joined by Ersinius, a former Chaplain to Queen Matilda, the wife of King Henry I, and then a band of followers. A church was built on the site, dedicated to St John the Baptist, and consecrated in 1108. By 1118, a group of around 40 monks from England founded there a priory of Canons Regular, the first in Wales. Thanks for the comments about the pictures, I must admit I enjoy these isolated places, the peace, quiet and beautiful surroundings are very good for the soul. Ian.
Ian, thank you for the background on the church. It is so inspiring to think of all the years, all the history, and all the prayers that have passed in those places. We are a young country here, with a fondness for plowing under and rebuilding, so there are no ancient spots like this here.