What did mediaeval Grey Friars look like?
This is one of the great mysteries of Colchester’s past.
There is no doubt that the Grey Friars complex would have been a significant landmark in the town during the mediaeval period.
But, apart from some re-used material in modern walls, and limited below-ground remains identified in small-scale archaeological excavations (by Colchester Archaeological Trust), William Stukeley’s 1718 sketch (below) is the most comprehensive piece of evidence we have on which to base an analysis of how the site looked when occupied by friars from the 1220s to 1538 when Henry VIII’s agent brought about its dissolution.
Nevertheless, we’ve put together and analysed all the evidence we can find, including information from other Grey Friars sites in England.
The fascinating results can be seen by clicking here> what-did-mediaeval-grey-friars-look-like This is a printable document.