In 644, the abbey was the site of the [[Synod of Whitby]], at which the Northumbrian Celtic church was reconciled to [[Church of Rome|Rome]]. In 867, the abbey fell to Viking attack, and was abandoned until 1078, when it was re-founded by Reinferd. The second monastery lasted until it was destroyed by Henry VIII in 1540. The abbey buildings fell into ruins and were mined for stone, but remained a prominent landmark for sailors.

[[Category:British Monasteries]]

[[Category:Church History]]

[[Category:Monasteries]]