Bury St Edmunds

Bury St Edmunds Abbey, located in Suffolk, England, is a historic site of great religious significance. It was once one of the most powerful and wealthy Benedictine monasteries in medieval England. The abbey was founded in the 11th century and became a major pilgrimage destination due to its association with Saint Edmund, the martyred King of East Anglia. Saint Edmund was killed by Viking invaders in the 9th century, and his remains were later enshrined at the abbey, attracting pilgrims seeking spiritual solace and miracles. The abbey played a central role in English religious and political history, including hosting the barons who swore an oath to force King John to sign the Magna Carta in 1214. Today, the ruins of the abbey, managed by English Heritage, offer visitors a glimpse into its grandeur and spiritual legacy. Pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike are drawn to its serene atmosphere and the enduring connection to Saint Edmund.