Cistercian Abbeys

TINTERN ABBEY

Founded for Cistercian monks in 1131 and largely rebuilt by Roger Bigod, lord of nearby Chepstow castle, in the late 13-century, it encompasses grand design and architectural detail of great proportions.  The shell of the abbey stands open to the skies almost to its full height, an outstanding example of the elaborate decorated style of Gothic architecture.

Visitors are invariably captivated by the vast windows with their delicate tracery and the wealth of decorative detail displayed in the walls, doorways and archways.  This extensive site also gives a facinating insight into the monastic way of life in medieval times.  Wordsworth was inspired by his visit to write his famous poem, 'Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey'.  But Tintern's true character can perhaps never be captured in words, Cistercian Father, Bernard of Clairvaux wrote, 'You will find among the woods something you never found in books'.

For further information visit http://www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/