What is an abbey?

An abbey is fundamentally defined as a complex of buildings that accommodates monks or nuns, typically associated with a monastic community. This arrangement often includes living quarters, a church, and facilities to support the community's spiritual and physical needs. The architectural design reflects the monastic way of life, which emphasizes community, worship, and, in many cases, self-sufficiency.

While some might consider the educational aspects of an abbey or its architectural style, the most accurate and inclusive definition focuses on it as a group of buildings specifically for monastic living and religious practice. This context highlights the significance of abbeys in the development of medieval monasticism and their role in preserving knowledge and culture during the Middle Ages.