St. Patrick's Chapel, Glastonbury

It is claimed that Saint Patrick was buried within the Abbey grounds next to the high altar, which has led to many believing this is why Glastonbury was popular among Irish pilgrims throughout the ages. This was recorded by William of Malmesbury in his document "De antiquitate Glastoniensis ecclesiae (Concerning the Antiquity of Glastonbury)" that was compiled between 1129–35, where it was noted that “After converting the Irish and establishing them solidly in the Catholic faith he returned to his native land, and was led by guidance from on high to Glastonbury. There he came upon certain holy men living the life of hermits. Finding themselves all of one mind with Patrick they decided to form a community and elected him as their superior. Later, two of their members resided on the Tor to serve its Chapel.”[2] The well known Irish Scholar James Carney also elaborated on this claim and wrote: “it is possible that Patrick, tired and ill at the end of his arduous mission felt released from his vow not to leave Ireland, and returned to the monastery from which he had come, which might have been Glastonbury.”[3]

The chapel was built by Abbot Richard Bere who was well known for being a master builder in his time. Construction started in 1512 and was finished five years later. It originally sat next to St. Patrick's Almshouses for women, which were demolished during the Suppression of the Monasteries along with most of Glastonbury Abbey around 1539 after the execution of the last Abbot, Richard Whiting. From '2009–2010' the Chapel was renovated 'with a new stained glass window by Wayne Ricketts and murals designed by Fleur Kelly, a local artist. This was made possible by a grant of £49,200 by the Heritage Lottery Fund.' [4] Its construction is described as 'Simple Perp chapel of random rubble with pantile roof.' Complete with a 'Bellcote with single bell to west gable.' It has 'Panels with carved arms of the Abbey and Tudor roses at west end. 4-light traceried east window.' And a 'South window with original glass.'[5]