Fountains Abbey is a wonderfully historic site in North Yorkshire. 

 

The Abbey was founded in 1132 by Benedictine monks who had been expelled from St. Mary's Abbey in York. The monks sought a more devout way of life, and under the leadership of Abbot Richard, they established Fountains Abbey in a remote valley near the River Skell. 

 

Between the 12th and 14th century, Fountains Abbey grew in both wealth and size. It became one of England's wealthiest and most influential abbeys, known for its wool exports and production. This was its major source of income. 

 

However, between the 14th and 16th century, the abbey faced many challenges. For instance, the Black Death was a major issue in the mid-14th century which greatly reduced its population. 

Furthermore, the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s, initiated by King Henry VIII, led to the confiscation and dissolution of monastic properties. This meant that in 1539, Fountains Abbey was surrendered to the Crown. After this, the assets of the abbey were sold off and the buildings were stripped of value. The site fell into ruin. 

 

Fortunately, in the 18th century, medieval ruins were of interest, and because of Fountain Abbey's picturesque, it became subject of fascination to artists and writers. 

 

Today, the abbey is managed by the National Trust and English Heritage. It is now popular with tourists and draws in visitors from all around the world!