Byland Abbey
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The ruins of Byland AbbeyByland Abbey in Yorkshire, England was founded as a Savigniac abbey in January 1135 and was absorbed by the Cistercian order in 1147. It wasn't an easy start for the community who had had to move five times before settling at New Byland, near Coxwold in 1177. Its early history was marked by disputes with no fewer than four other religious establishments (Furness Abbey, Calder Abbey, Rievaulx Abbey and Newburgh Priory). However, once it had overcome this bad start, it was described in the late 1300s as "one of the three shining lights of the north". Byland Abbey didn't achieve the heights of financial success that places such as Rievaulx did, but it was famed for its sheep rearing and wool exports. Its church was said to be among the finest 12th-century churches in Europe.
It was dissolved on 30 November 1538. In 1539, the site was granted to Sir William Pickering.
Impressive remains can still be seen, in the care of English Heritage. An interesting feature is the preservation of some of the brightly-coloured medieval floor tiles. An altar table was also recovered, although that is now in Ampleforth, and a stone lecturn base from the chapter house is the only example its kind in Britain.
See also
- Wimund (bishop) - English bishop, later turned pirate, was held here after his capture in the 12th century.
External links
- [Byland Abbey] website history, building and lands.
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