Above is a typical
layout of a monastary
Below are some religious terms
ALMONRY:
The Almoner's apartment. Among his many duties was the distribution
of alms to the needy and sustenance to passing wayfarers.
CARREL:
A recess or tiny cell in the cloisters wherein to read
and study.
CHAPTER HOUSE:
The council chamber in which the abbot, prior and others met for the transaction
of business. Often next in architectural importance to the church.
CLOISTER:
A covered walk round the quadrangle, with windows or
colonnade on the inner sides. Here the monks took exercise and spent such free time as they had.
DORTER or DORMITORY:
The sleeping apartment originally one room with pallet beds against the walls; later partitions gave a degree of privacy.
FRATER or REFECTORY:
The dining-hall, usually on the side of the cloister farthest from the nave of the church. During meals, which were taken
in silence, readings were given by a monk, who occupied the refectory pulpit.
GARTH:
The Square, generally greensward, enclosed by the cloister.
LAVABO or LAVATORY:
The apartment for the washing of hands and face, with a long stone trough.
MINSTER:
The church of a monastery, or at one time attached to a monastery.
MITRED ABBEY:
One ruled by an abbot entitled to wear a mitre.
NIGHT STAIRS:
A stairway direct from the Dorter to the church, used by those participating in the night offices.
PRIORY:
A monastery governed by a prior, usually subordinate to an abbey.
SACRISTY:
A room used for storing the plate and valuables.
SLYPE:
A narrow covered passage leading from the cloister
to the monks' cemetery.
