ENGLAND’S oldest living convent is preparing to reopen next month - and is celebrating by unveiling “significant historical artefacts” it has recently inherited.

The Bar Convent, in Blossom Street, York, which was established in 1686, is opening its doors again following lockdown on Monday, May 17.

To coincide with the reopening, the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre will be showcasing a collection of artefacts recently inherited from St Mary’s School, Shaftesbury.

A highlight of the collection is a stunning Eastertide painting which was originally a centrepiece at the Shaftesbury Chapel.

This specially commissioned painting depicts Mary surrounded by vibrant angels.

Dr Hannah Thomas, special collections manager at the Bar Convent, said: “We are honoured to have inherited such fascinating artefacts and to be able research and explore the places they hold in our history.

“From paintings and ornaments to photographs, letters and hand-written account books; each individual item is part of the legacy of St Mary’s Shaftesbury and we look forward to discovering more about the collections and sharing our findings with visitors.”

It is believed that the painting was specially commissioned by Sister Gregory as part of the build of the Chapel at St Mary’s School in the 1960s.

The school was originally founded by the Congregation of Jesus Trust but closed in 2020.

As the national repository for the Congregation of Jesus Trust, the Bar Convent inherited the collections held by the school.

The Bar Convent, including its café, gift shop and garden, will be re-opening with precautions in place, including social distancing in public areas, a one-way system, hand sanitiser stations and enhanced hygiene and cleaning throughout.