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Monasteries In The Landscape

During 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. They story does not end with the Dissolution: the book also discusses how the 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.

Known to millions from Channel 4's 'Time Team', Mick Aston is Emeritus Professor of Landscape Archaeology at the University of Bristol, an Honorary Visiting Professor at the University of Exeter and an Honorary Professor at the University of Durham. He is a tireless — and immensely popular — lecturer and author.

  • Format
  • paperback
  • Language
  • english
  • ISBN
  • 9780752414911
  • Genres
  • archaeology, history
  • Release date
  • 2000