Members' Lecture: A Merry Monastic Christmas

Just like today, Christmas at medieval monasteries was one of the greatest feasts of the year. A time of especially elaborate religious services, it was also an occasion for merrymaking, charity and generosity.

Drawing on evidence from monasteries including Battle, Rievaulx and Whitby, this lecture by Senior Properties Historian Dr Michael Carter (originally aired on 13 December 2022) reveals when the medieval Christmas started, how long it lasted, what it meant for the daily routines of the monks and nuns, and how it was an excuse for feasting, singing carols, hospitality, gift-giving and ruinous expense!