Ruins of Blackfriars at Arundel

Ruins of Blackfriars at Arundel
Originally uploaded by Gorse Fox.

Crossing the bridge in Arundel you first come across the remains of a Dominican Hospital, known as Blackfriars, or Maison Dieu.

Richard, earl of Arundel, who died in 1376, had intended to found a hospital or almshouse in connexion with the college whose foundation he was contemplating. Both these schemes were carried out by his successor, who, after establishing the college, obtained royal licence in 1395 to alienate to the master and chaplains of the same 4 messuages and 3 tofts in Arundel for a hospital or Maison Dieu, in honour of the Holy Trinity¹

Now it is a quiet palce to tourists to stop and watch the River, to check their maps, or to have their lunch.

¹ Reference: British History Online.
[File under: Sussex Walk, Arundel]