By Isle of Wight Observer
The beautiful buildings of Quarr Abbey inspire and uplift the soul.
They are home to a small group of Benedictine monks, who dedicate their lives to the glory of God, and welcome you to join them to discover the peace, beauty and tranquility of Quarr.
Quarr Abbey was built as a monastery for the French Benedictine community of Solesmes, who were living in exile on the Isle of Wight at the beginning of the twentieth century. Its architect was one of the monks, Dom Paul Bellot (1876-1944).
The Abbey was built entirely by local workmen, few of whom could have had any experience of building on such a scale or in such a style. And there is a suggestion that the confidence he had in his own ability was not universally shared. The Sanctuary tower in particular was viewed with suspicion. Many were convinced that such a soaring brick structure could not stand. But stand it did.
Quarr also has beautiful gardens, a tea shop serving delicious food, and a visitor centre where you can learn about the monastery and monastic life. The farm shop offers home-grown and local produce, and the monastery shop is a treasure trove of religious articles, books and souvenirs.
We’ve teamed up with our friends at Quarr Abbey so that one lucky reader can win a voucher to experience the wonder of this spiritual building. The Christmas at Quarr Experience will include lunch for two at the teashop and a £50 voucher for the farm shop.
To be in with a chance of winning just answer the question: What was the name of the Monk Architect that designed Quarr Abbey? Don’t forget to include your name, address and telephone number, and send your answer via email to competition@iwobserver.co.uk, by text to 07469 629071, or leave a message. The competition closes at 5pm on Friday, November 22, and the winner will be drawn at random.