What did the Benedictines wear in the Middle Ages?

Answer 1

The answer depends on which part of the medieval period and which part of Europe.

St Benedict stated in chapter 55 of his Regula (Rule) that monks should be provided with clothing "according to the circumstances of the place and the nature of the climate . . . because in cold regions more is needed . . . We believe that for a temperate climate a cowl and a tunic for each monk are sufficient; a woollen cowl for winter and a thin or worn one for summer, and a scapular for work, and stockings and shoes as coverings for the feet. Let monks not worry about the colour or texture of these things, but let them be such as can be bought more cheaply."

St Benedict was writing for monks in 6th century Italy and at that time his brethren would be seen wearing tunics (habits) and cowls of grey, off-white, brown or dun coloured wool, whatever material was available cheapest locally.

By the very early 12th century, each monastic Order had chosen a particular colour for their clothing: Benedictines chose "black" and Cistercians chose "white". Neither of these medieval colours were the intense black or pure white we know today, but very dark grey-brown and undyed natural wool. Benedictines continued to wear "black" until long after the medieval period.

So in around 1140, an English Benedictine monk wore a natural linen undershirt, a "black" full-length habit with very long, wide sleeves, belted around the waist with leather or cord, with a "black" cowl (a hooded garment) added. During work periods, the "black" scapular would be worn over all - this was a very long rectangle of wool cloth, shoulder-width and with a central hole for the head, hanging loose front and back to protect the habit from dust or dirt. Tan or black turnshoes completed the outfit.

In cold weather additional layers would be added, including undergarments of sheepskin.

In choir, monks often wore an all-in-one sleeved garment with an integral hood instead of the separate cowl.

The wide sleeves, at full length, might reach almost to the ankles and had to be bunched up along the arm or turned back to expose the hands.

Contrary to popular belief, monks did not wear a crucifix around their necks and did not wear sandals - they were the mark of friars.

The first link below takes you to a 12th century illustration showing St Benedict and his monks - they are dressed in 12th century style and their habits are not quite "black" in the modern sense:

The second link is to a late 12th century illumination showing St Cuthbert helping Benedictine monks board a small boat - the sleeve length is clearly shown:

Answer 2

In the Middle Ages, Benedictine monks typically wore a monastic habit, which consisted of a long tunic, a belt or rope to cinch the waist, and a hooded cowl. The color of the habit varied depending on the specific order or monastery. Additionally, they would also wear a scapular, which was a long piece of cloth that hung over their shoulders.