A new book detailing the history of Carisbrooke Priory has just been produced by the Isle of Wight Catholic History Society.
The priory stands on the hill beside Mountjoy cemetery to the south west of Newport and has a unique history.
It was built in 1866 by Elizabeth, Countess of Clare.
She has a close affiliation to the Dominican Order and she was determined that the Dominicans would be the first monastic order to be established on the Island (post Reformation).
Three years later, on January 27, 1869, Queen Victoria visited the priory, while staying at Osborne House.
This was significant as she was the first visit of a monarch to a Catholic monastic establishment for over 300 years.
Such a historic royal visit certainly raised eyebrows at the time, but it gradually led to improved and cordial relations between Catholics and Anglicans.
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Until then, there had been a determined effort to stop or hinder Catholics building churches and chapels on the Island.
The (enclosed) Order flourished at Carisbrooke for almost a hundred years. The nuns led a simple life of prayer, meditation and devotion.
From the late 1960s, many religious Orders began to decline and Carisbrooke was no exception.
Their numbers dwindled until in 1989 there remained just five elderly nuns, who could no longer maintain the priory.
They were pleased however that a Christian presence would remain when they eventually moved to another priory.
Today, Christian witness continues with the priory now well established as a pastoral and retreat centre.
The new book is available from the priory at just £3.
Copies can also be ordered from the society. E.mail iow-chs@outlook.com
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