Evesham Abbey, was established between 700 and 710 AD by Saint Egwin. Its founding is linked to a vision of the Virgin Mary reportedly seen by a swineherd named Eof.
Despite the Norman Conquest, Evesham Abbey prospered, largely due to Abbot Ethelwig's swift action in gaining William the Conqueror's favor. This Benedictine abbey became one of England's wealthiest. Simon de Montfort, a significant historical figure, is buried near the high altar; a memorial was placed there in 1965 by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Simon de Mountford 5th Earl c1208-1265 Buried in Evesham Abbey
The abbey met its demise during the 16th-century Dissolution of the Monasteries, when most of the structure was destroyed. Today, only a section of wall, fragments of the 13th-century chapter house, the almonry, the 16th-century bell tower, and a gateway remain. The site is a scheduled monument containing several listed structures, including four of the highest Grade I designation.
The precise founding date of the abbey is debated. While some accounts suggest earlier dates, the consecration is often linked to a papal charter granted by Pope Constantine in 709 AD. This charter, brought back from Rome by Egwin, supposedly led to the establishment of a monastic community at Evesham. The consecration may have coincided with the feast of All Saints in 709.
Although much of the abbey was demolished in 1540, the bell tower, standing at 110 feet, survived and is a Grade I listed building. Other surviving elements include the restored 15th-century almonry (now a museum), the L-shaped house incorporating the 14th-century Great Gate, Abbot Reginald's 12th-century gateway and wall, sections of the south wall, a 13th-century archway, fragments of the north transept's west wall, and remains of the 14th/15th-century stables.
The entire abbey precinct is a scheduled monument. Currently, the almonry and Abbot Reginald's wall are on Historic England's Heritage at Risk register. Other historically connected buildings include the Middle Littleton tythe barn.
Several saints are associated with Evesham Abbey, including Saint Egwin, Saint Credan, Saint Wigstan of Mercia, and Saint Odulf. Besides Simon de Montfort, other notable figures buried there include Henry de Montfort, Hugh le Despencer, Robert de Stafford, and Thomas of Marlborough.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the abbey ruins became a popular subject for artists. J.M.W. Turner created watercolors of the gateway and surrounding area. Prints of the ruins also circulated widely, contributing to the growth of tourism. Antiquarian Edward Rudge conducted excavations on his property in the 19th century, with the findings and illustrations published by the Society of Antiquaries of London.
