St. Werburg's Mynster

The large Benedictine complex of St. Werburg's

The Benedictine monasteries and nunneries were an important part of Viking Age Britain. These complexes were divided into many areas each with a different function.

The Monastic Church

It was here that the monks and nuns gathered for prayer eight times a day.

Chapter House

This was the formal meeting place for the monks.

Warming-Room

Next to the chapter house was the warming-room (later called a parlour), used as a sort of common room.

Cloister

It was here that the monks came to read and think, and prepared to meet God in the church.

Cellarium

This was a store house for food and drink.

Dorter

This is where the monks lived, sometimes called the dormtory.

Kitchen

The monks' meals were prepared here.

Refectory

This was the monks' dining room.

Infirmary

This served as a hospital for old and sick monks.

Scriptorium

Books and manuscripts were produced here.

Abbot's quarters

This was the part of the dortor where the abbot lived.

Monastery garden

Here the monks grew many of the vegetables and herbs they needed for food and medicine.