Valle Crucis Abbey, North Wales, UK
N 52° 59.343 W 003° 11.233
30U E 487432 N 5871068
The remains of a Cistercian abbey built in 1201.
Waymark Code: WM859P
Location: North Wales, United Kingdom
Date Posted: 01/31/2010
Views: 5
The evocative ruins of Valle Crucis lie in green fields (though not in the picture above!) beneath Llangollen's steep sided mountains. In medieval times, this was a remote spot (ideal for austere Cistercian monks, who deliberately sought out wild and lonely places).
Their Abbey, founded in the 13th century and added to a century later, has fared better than many of its contemporaries against the ravages of time, history and neglect.
Many original features remain, including the glorious west front complete with an elaborate, richly carved doorway, beautiful rose window and 14th century inscription 'Abbot Adams carried out this work; may he rest in peace. Amen'.
Other well preserved features include the east end of the Abbey (which overlooks the monks' original fishpond) and lovely Chapter House with its striking rib-vaulted roof.
Access to the grounds of the abbey is free during the winter months. See the photograph of the entrance sign for dates and prices etc. It is well signposted from the A539.
Eliseg's Pillar, from which Valle Crucis derives it's name, is a short walk to the north of the abbey.
Property page on English Heritage website: [Web Link]
I am an English Heritage Member: no
Property Address:
Valle Crucis Abbey
Llangollen
Denbighshire
Wales.
Property maintained by:: Cadw
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