Ghost Hunt: The Commandery
Paranormal Investigation at the amazing listed building
The Commandery is a Grade 1 listed building, making it one of Worcester’s most important historical sites.
Set in the heart of historic Worcester, it’s most famous for being the Royalist Headquarters during the deciding battle of the English Civil War – the Battle of Worcester 1651, a pivotal moment in the English Civil War,
Built on an early medieval chapel site, the Commandery has also been a monastic hospital, family home, and college for the blind.
What do we know?
It is believed that the first building on the Commandery site was constructed in the 11th century and commissioned by Wulstan, Bishop of Worcester, as a hospital or almshouse (today, hospice) for the terminally ill, destitute and pilgrims.
History
Records of the Commandery’s existence did not occur until the 13th century, when a selection of stories refers to Thomas of Eldersfield, who was cared for at the hospital in 1221. After serving its original function as a hospital for nearly 500 years, it was one of the last monastic institutions to be dissolved by Henry VIII in 1540. From that date on, the Commandery was to fulfil several varied roles.
Today, it serves as a museum and events venue.
What of the spirit that still resides there?
Staff have reported hearing doors close independently and feeling followed in the corridors. A ghostly monk has also been seen walking across the Minstrel Gallery. Be careful where you stand near the Preacher room, as guests have heard a woman sobbing and a long period of whispers!!
These old walls have always held stories, whispers in the dark, and footsteps when no one is there. The list of paranormal phenomena goes on…
Will you join us?
museumsworcestershire.org.uk/…/the-commandery
