Museum of the Order of St John

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Museum of the Order of St John

The Museum of the Order of St John is a museum located in Clerkenwell, London, dedicated to the history of the Order of St John. The museum is housed in the historic St John's Gate, a surviving part of the Priory of Clerkenwell, which was the English headquarters of the medieval Knights Hospitaller.

History

The Order of St John was established in the 11th century to provide care for sick pilgrims in Jerusalem. The English branch of the order was founded in the 12th century, and the Priory of Clerkenwell became its headquarters. The order was dissolved in England during the Reformation in the 16th century, but it was revived in the 19th century as a charitable organization, known today as St John Ambulance.

Exhibits

The museum's exhibits cover the history of the Order of St John from its origins in the 11th century to its modern-day activities. Key exhibits include:

• Medieval artifacts from the Knights Hospitaller, including armor, weapons, and manuscripts.
• Displays on the history of the Priory of Clerkenwell and its role in the order.
• Exhibits on the revival of the order in the 19th century and the founding of St John Ambulance.
• Collections of medical equipment and uniforms used by St John Ambulance volunteers.

St John's Gate

St John's Gate is a historic gatehouse that was part of the Priory of Clerkenwell. It was built in the early 16th century and has served various purposes over the centuries, including as a printing house and a tavern. Today, it houses the Museum of the Order of St John and serves as the headquarters of the modern Order of St John.

Activities and Programs

The museum offers a range of educational programs and activities, including guided tours, lectures, and workshops. It also hosts temporary exhibitions on various aspects of the history of the Order of St John and related topics.

Visiting Information

The Museum of the Order of St John is open to the public, and admission is free. It is located at St John's Gate, Clerkenwell, London. The museum is accessible by public transport, with the nearest London Underground station being Farringdon station.

See Also

• Order of St John
• St John Ambulance
• Knights Hospitaller
• Priory of Clerkenwell
• St John's Gate