Abergavenny's secret Catholic chapel to open to the public in 2028

Plas Gunter, one of Abergavenny's oldest buildings, is due to open to visitors in spring 2028, Visit Wales says, once a conservation and restoration project is complete. The Grade II listed 17th-century townhouse on Cross Street was built around 1630.

The hidden chapel

Inside is a secret Catholic chapel once used by travelling priests to celebrate Mass at a time when practising the faith could carry severe penalties. It is associated with St David Lewis, the Abergavenny-born Jesuit who became Wales's last Catholic martyr, and St Philip Evans. Hidden for more than 200 years, the chapel and its surviving wall paintings are among the most significant parts of the building.

What else is there

The house also has an ornate 17th-century plaster ceiling decorated with cherubs, vines, pomegranates and Tudor roses. Archaeological remains linked to a Roman road have been found beneath the garden.

Who is behind it

Plas Gunter Mansion Trust is carrying out the work, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other funders. The most historically significant areas, including the chapel, will open to the public for the first time. Opening times, admission prices, guided visits, accessibility and group bookings are due to be announced nearer the date.