Originating in 16th Century
England at the time of the
Reformation, a
priesthole was a
secret room used to hide
Catholic priests from
persecution by forces loyal to the
King.
Priestholes were built in churches, monasteries, abbies and even the homes of of sympathetic individuals. These hiding places often took the form of small rooms hidden behind false walls, compartments under floorboards and even shelves within chimneys. They can still be found in many places to this day.