Summary : Originally founded in the castle area by King Eadbald of Kent (died 640), for 22 secular canons. These were transferred to St Martins in the town circa 696. There they remained until Henry I gave the church to Canterbury cathedral in 1130. Augustinian canons were introduced in 1131, but they were replaced in 1136 by Benedictine monks from Canterbury cathedral. These were reinforced by a further 12 monks in 1139, when the priory was declared to be a cell of Canterbury. Dissolved 1535. Extant buildings from the 12th and 13th centuries, including the refectory, are now incorporated into a 19th century college. |
More information : [TR 31434164] St. Martins Priory [NR] (Remains of) [TR 31474152] Gate House [NR] (Restored). (1) The Priory of St. Mary the Virgin and St. Martin of the New Work, Dover, was founded for Augustinian Canons in 1131 who were replaced by Benedictines in 1136 (dependent on Canterbury Cathedral) It was dissolved in 1535.
In 691 A.D. the collegiate church of St. Martin-le-Grand was founded in the town by Wihtred, King of Kent (see TR 34 SW 36). The college was suppressed after 1130, and the canons removed to the new site. The remains of the priory now form part of Dover College (see plan F/54/86/8 (c)) and included the 12th/13th century refectory (now the school hall) the 13th century guest house (now the chapel) the 13th century gatehouse which was restored in 1880 (now the library) and fragments of the W. range and kitchen. (See GPs AO/64/142/5-7) Published 1/1250 survey correct. (2) Dover College including remains of St. Martin's Priory. Effingham Crescent. Most of the buildings of the College are 19th century but it incorporates some of the remains of the Priory of St. Martin founded in 1140. The School Hall, Dover College (formerly the Refectory of St. Martin'sPriory). Grade II. 12th to 13th century restored. Mediaeval wall painting of Last Supper. Ruins to West of The Refectory of St. Martin's Priory, Dover College. Grade II. Remains of flint walls of a Mediaeval building. School Chapel, Dover College (formerly the Guest House of St. Martin'sPriory) Early 13th century restored in 1880. (For full description see list) (3) TR 315415. Excavation by Brian Philp for Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit, Dover District Council and D.O.E. was carried out close to the 12th century hall within the limits of Dover Priory. The area was heavily disturbed and no structure was found. (4) Additional bibliography. (5-12) Additional bibliography - not consulted. (13-18) |