Eastbridge Hospital of St Thomas the Martyr, Canterbury

Eastbridge Hospital of St Thomas the Martyr, Canterbury is a historic alms house and former hospital located in Canterbury, Kent, England. It was founded following the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170, to provide accommodation for poor pilgrims visiting his shrine in Canterbury Cathedral. Over the centuries, Eastbridge Hospital has served various charitable purposes and remains in operation today, offering both accommodation and support to the elderly.

History

The origins of Eastbridge Hospital can be traced back to the early years following the martyrdom of Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, in 1170. The influx of pilgrims to his shrine necessitated the establishment of facilities to house them. Eastbridge Hospital was founded to meet this need, and it has been providing shelter and support to the needy ever since.

In the 12th century, the hospital was established to offer care and hospitality to poor pilgrims. Over time, its role evolved to serve different community needs, including acting as a place of education and a home for the elderly. Despite the changes in its function, the core mission of providing assistance and shelter to those in need has remained constant.

Architecture

The architecture of Eastbridge Hospital reflects its long history, with buildings and features dating from the 12th to the 21st centuries. The most notable architectural feature is the Undercroft, a large, vaulted space originally used to accommodate pilgrims. The Undercroft exemplifies medieval architecture with its stone columns and ribbed vaults.

Adjacent to the Undercroft is the Chapel of St Thomas, a place of worship for residents and visitors. The chapel, with its stained glass windows and historic fittings, continues to be a focal point of the hospital.

Function and Services

Today, Eastbridge Hospital functions as an alms house, providing accommodation for the elderly. It offers a unique combination of historic ambiance and modern facilities, ensuring that residents live in comfort while being surrounded by history.

The hospital also plays a role in the local community, hosting events and opening its doors to visitors interested in its history and architecture. The Eastbridge Hospital continues to fulfill its founding mission of service, adapting to meet the changing needs of society.

Preservation and Heritage

Eastbridge Hospital is a Grade I listed building, recognizing its exceptional interest and importance in the national heritage. The preservation of the hospital and its buildings is overseen by a charitable trust, which ensures that both the physical structure and the institution's charitable purposes are maintained for future generations.

See Also

• Canterbury Cathedral
• Pilgrimage
• Alms house
• Thomas Becket