Selby Abbey

Selby Abbey was originally a rich Benedictine monastery. Its foundation is said to originate with Germain, a French nobleman and soldier, who was born around AD378.

Germain became a Bishop and twice visited England to help unite Christianity. When he died he was buried triumphantly at Auxerre. More than six hundred years later a monk called Benedict (or Benoit) experienced Saint Germain's vision here, which told him togo to Selby and build an Abbey.

This Norman Abbey is stunning, standing on eight tall Roman arches with a large east window behind the High Altar and other beautiful stained glass windows. There are also exquisite examples of carved wood, tapestries and stonework.

Look for the Stars and Stripes flag which is said to have been the inspiration for the American flag.

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