Tintern Abbey |
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It's easy to understand why Tintern Abbey was one of the first places in Wales to attract Visitors. Travellers have been flocking to this riverbank in the wooded Wye Valley for hundreds of years to admire Tintern's grace and sublime beauty. The appeal of this exceptional religious house remains as enduring as ever, the best preserved medieval abbey in Wales.
Founded for Cistercian monks in 1131 and largely rebuilt by Roger Bigod, lord of nearby Chepstow Castle, in the late 13th century, it encompasses grand design and architectural detail of great finesse. 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 decorated detail displayed in the walls, doorways and soaring archways.
This extensive site also gives a fascinating insight into the monastic way of life in medieval times. Tintern stirs the soul. Wordsworth was inspired by his visit to write his famous poem, "Composed a few Miles above Tintern Abbey". Tintern's true character though, can perhaps never be captured in words. As the Cistercian Father, Bernard of Clairvaux wrote, "You will find among the woods something you never found in books."
General Information:
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Directions
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| From Cardiff M4 J23, M48 J2, A466. From London M4 J21 to M48. |
| Show map of Tintern Abbey... |
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Tintern Abbey Postcode for SatNav: NP16 6SE |
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Nearby Attractions
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Chepstow Museum
(4 Miles)*
Chepstow Museum reveals the rich and varied past of this ancient town, once an important port and market centre. Wine trade, shipbuilding and salmon fishing are among Chepstow's many industries featured in displays with atmospheric settings. |
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Chepstow Castle
(4 Miles)*
Chepstow Castle, on its rock above the swirling waters of the River Wye, stands guard over a strategic crossing point into Wales. |
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Lydney Park Gardens
(5 Miles)*
Now Closed FOR THE 2010 SEASON |
| more nearby attractions... |
| more things to do in South Wales and days out in South Wales... |
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Nearby Hotels
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Nearby Self Catering
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National Trust | Estate Agents |
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