What is the difference between Abbey and Priory?

An abbey is a monastery. You may have heard of this term if you have ever seen the movie “The Sound of Music.” The monastery is considered to be a structure that is used for religious reasons. It is commonly known as a spiritual house. An abbey is a monastery or convent. Even though these words are used interchangeably, there are some subtle differences between the two.

A cloister is considered to be a little loftier and of a higher standard than that of a monastery. The rulers of the Abbey are known as the Abbot, and the Abbot is believed to be higher ranked than the leader of them, which is a Prior or Prioress. The leaders are different, and their ranks are different.