Monasteries in the Landscape

In the Middle Ages monasteries were among the greatest owners of land in Britain; today their influence on the landscape can be seen not only in the magnificent monastic ruins, but also in earthworks, patterns of landholding and even industrial remains. Mick Aston examines the place of monasteries in the landscape - how they affected and were affected by the countryside in which they were built. He explains how monasticism arrived in Britain - growing from austere beginnings to rich and powerful estates. He looks at why abbeys and priories were sited where they were and at all aspects of their activities - estate management, farming policy, industrial and commercial operations in the countryside and in towns. The story does not end with the Dissolution: the book also discusses how many of their estates and buildings were bought by private owners and adapted for secular use. Whether you are an amateur archaeologist/historian or student, this magnificently illustrated book will direct you to the signs in the landscape that reveal the past glory of Britain's monasteries.

Binding Type: Paperback
Publisher: Amberley Publishing
Published: 09/15/2009
ISBN: 9781848686861
Pages: 223
Weight: 1.40lbs
Size: 9.70h x 6.70w x 0.70d

Review Citations: Reference and Research Bk News 08/01/2010 pg. 228