Maison dieu, ospringe

04/11/2025

Interesting article https://www.facebook.com/share/1CrWrJdcoQ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Commissioned by Henry III in 1234, Maison Dieu in Ospringe, Faversham, Kent, was a remarkable multi-purpose establishment. Located on the historic Watling Street (now the A2), this timber-framed building functioned as a hospital, monastery, hostel, retirement home, and even a royal lodge.

Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was staffed by a master and three brethren of the Order of the Holy Cross, alongside two secular clerks who conducted masses. Its primary mission was hospitality, welcoming poor, needy passers-by, and pilgrims. The king himself had a dedicated resting place here, known as Camera Regis.

Beyond its roles, Maison Dieu's records offer valuable insights into the social integration of sick and disabled individuals in medieval society, as evidenced by admissions like the "blind daughter of Andrew of Faversham" in 1235.

11/09/2025

Important Notice: Museum Closed This Sunday, 14th September 2025

Dear friends, We’re sorry to share that the museum will be closed this Sunday, 14th September, due to a shortage of volunteers. We will be open on Saturday, so please feel free to visit or reach out with any questions.

This closure highlights just how vital our volunteers are. Without their time and dedication, we simply can’t keep our doors open. If you or someone you know would like to get involved—even just a few hours a month—it would make a world of difference.

📧 Contact us at: [email protected] Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

24/03/2025

Hop into the fun this Easter at Maison Dieu Museum! 🌸🐣

Join us for an egg-citing adventure as you explore our fascinating collection while hunting for hidden chicks. Every little explorer will be rewarded with a delicious chocolate egg and a delightful bag of sweets—because who doesn’t love a treat? 🍫🍬

It’s just £2.00 per child to join the fun! So, mark your calendars and get ready for a cracking good time.

For more details, visit us at (www.masiondieumuseum.co.uk). See you there—don't forget to bring your best chick-hunting skills! 🐥🎉

10/11/2024

What a blast we have had this season,would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has come to visit and thank you to all the volunteers.

Next year is our 100th anniversary of being open as a museum so be sure to keep an eye out on events.

Now the busy time can start, to get it ready for the new season.

We will be back open easter weekend 2025.

Have a lovely Christmas and a happy new year from everyone at the Maison Dieu Museum.😊

25/08/2024

What a great day, we had over 80 people attended the Maison Dieu Medieval day, this was part of open Faversham , thanks to everyone that took part, And thank you to all the visitors.

07/08/2024

Meet the Medieval
at the Maison Dieu Museum
Saturday 24th August 2024
2pm - 5pm Free Entry

Meet characters dressed to portray aspects of medieval life as experienced here when the building was part of a Pilgrimage Hospital.

Find out about our:
“ Herbs and Healing project “

Related to the museum’s involvement with,

“ The History of place project “. 2015 - 2018 Highlighting the contribution of people with disability in the past or their care
See the projected
“ Story of Helen”
based on the real life of a blind lay sister who worked at the pilgrimage hospital in the 13th Centaurus

This event supports Open Faversham