VISITORS to an ancient abbey were yesterday given an insight into the lives of its monks.
Brother Anthony, alias English Heritage custodian Tony Powell, told the story of the 15th Century inhabitants of Rievaulx Abbey, near Helmsley, North Yorkshire.
During his guided tours, Mr Powell explained how Cistercian monks aimed to become self-sufficient, but became international traders.
He said they were a commercial force to be reckoned with, importing wine and fine cloths from across Europe to supplement their agricultural and industrial income from the estate.
Published: 29/12/2003
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