Greyfriars, Leicester, Franciscan monastery in Leicester, England
Description
Greyfriars in Leicester was a Franciscan monastery with several buildings including a church, chapter house, refectory, and infirmary. Gardens and a cemetery surrounded the whole complex and provided space for the daily life of the community.
History
After the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, King Richard III was buried in the church of this monastery. Henry VIII dissolved the monastery in 1538 as part of the suppression of monasteries across England.
Culture
The friars followed the rule of Saint Francis and wore grey habits with three-knotted cords around the waist. This clothing gave the place its name and was a visible sign of their commitment to poverty and humility.
Practical
The remains of the monastery are now part of the Richard III Visitor Centre and display finds from the archaeological excavations of 2012. Visitors can see remains of tiled floors and stone benches from the time when the friars lived here.
Did you know?
The chapter house of the monastery hosted the Lords during the 1414 Parliament of Leicester, called by King Henry V. The room thus played an important role in English history and served more than just religious life.
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