Medieval High Life

Irish Times at www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0216/1224264553851_pf.html February 16th … archaeologists in Kilkenny have discovered evidence of medieval abbots living the high life – the remains of roast swan and joints of beef washed down with French wine were found in the house of the Abbot, adjoining the abbey. The monks themselves lived more frugally, a simple more ascetic way of life. The abbey and house were confiscated by Henry VIII who shut down monasteries and religious orders all over his kingdom – which at that time included Ireland as well as Wales and England. The Tudor dynasty had origins in Wales, and as such, assumed a Welsh role in Ireland. Early Christian activity in Wales and Ireland was closely connected and the Welsh maintained a close association with the Irish over many centuries. Their histories, and religion, were closely entwined.