|
The Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539 began the gentle falling into ruin of Fountains Abbey, one of the largest and most important of the Cistercian monasteries. Glass and lead from the buildings were carried off to Ripon and York, where they were used in other buildings. Stone from the abbey was taken for local construction projects. Gradually the estate fell into ruin. Today it is owned by the National Trust and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. |
|
|
|
|
|