Excavations 1976-90 at the priory of St Mary Merton revealed much about
the layout and development of this monastery from the 12th century to
the Dissolution. Founded on its present site beside the Wandle river, c
11.3km south-west of London, in 1117, Merton was one of the most
influential of all the English houses of regular canons, and was much
favoured by Henry III. Of particular interest are the monastic infirmary
complex - hall, chapel, cloister and ancillary buildings - and the large
number (700+) of burials excavated from the external cemetery, church,
cloister and chapter house.