The most beautiful religious buildings Scotland

Founded in the ^13th century on an island in the Lake of Menteith, Inchmahome Priory is accessible by a small ferry from the village of Port of Menteith. The crossing is included in the ticket, which allows you to visit this historic site that saw the passage of King Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. Now partially in ruins, it still retains a certain charm, thanks to its location and its stones carved in the chapter house. This haven of peace is worth taking the time to walk around and discover its secrets.

Dating from the 13th century, this cathedral was seriously damaged in 1570 and was finally restored in 1835 at the instigation of the Countess of Sutherland. Nowadays, the most striking features are the numerous gargoyles and the square tower, which can be climbed during the summer. Legend has it that the gargoyles were evil spirits that were driven out of the cathedral by the ringing of the bells and turned into stones. The stained glass windows on the north side of the choir are also very interesting: they represent music, peace and literacy.

The foundation stone for Glasgow Cathedral was laid in 1136 in the presence of King David I and the building that stands proudly above the city today was completed in 1197. Since then it has been a prominent place of worship and its roof has never been destroyed, which is rare for such old walls. It is dedicated to Saint Mungo, also known as Saint Kentigern, the first bishop of the ancient kingdom of Strathclyde, who is buried in the crypt. In Scotland, it is the best preserved religious building of the 12th century, which has not been altered by the Reformation or by conflicts.

On the hill next door is the Victorian necropolis of the city. It was established on 15 hectares in 1832, where 50,000 people were buried and some 3,500 monuments now stand. Some are of great beauty, and the Celtic crosses and statues are worth a visit. It is a rather poignant and mysterious place, which commands a beautiful panorama of the surroundings. Several monuments are worth seeing: John Knox Monument, an imposing monument overlooking the cemetery erected to pay homage to the man of faith, and The Bridge of Sights, described as "the separation between time and eternity", as well as a more discreet and recent monument erected in honour of William Wallace, marked with the famous quote: "I am Scotland's Guardian. Though my body has been broken, my spirit will rise again to the sound of freedom.

Completed in 1224, this historic cathedral dedicated to the Holy Trinity did not suffer from the wars of independence, but was damaged by fire in 1270, 1390 and 1402. Its influence on the region was immense and its architecture among the most elaborate in the country. Now largely in ruins, its splendid west façade, the Stone Bishop statue in the nave, the Pictish cross and the largest tombstone in Scotland, five metres high and dedicated to the Anderson family, can still be appreciated today. Guided tours take place in July and August.

The remains of this noble cathedral bear witness to a much larger building, which was the epicentre of Catholic Scotland in the Middle Ages. Abandoned after the Reformation, it fell into disrepair and ruin, so that many of its stones were reused for other buildings. It was not until 1826 that some attention was paid to its preservation and attempts were made to perpetuate it. The St Rule's Tower at its heart is older than it is and was part of the early 12th century church that preceded it.

Founded in 1138 by David I, Jedburgh Abbey is one of the four great abbeys built in the Borders in the Middle Ages. It is also one of the best preserved and its influence was such that it owned as many as twenty churches in the surrounding area. Its location close to the border, however, did not bring it luck and it was a prime target during the many conflicts with England, such as the wars of independence. We still appreciate the quality of its Romanesque and Gothic architecture despite the damage of time.

St. Giles' Cathedral has become an icon of the Edinburgh skyline because of its crown-shaped bell tower. The first stones still visible were laid in the 12th century, but most of the building dates from the 15th century. It is the most important place of worship of the Church of Scotland in its capital. It is dedicated to Saint Giles, a Greek hermit who lived mainly in France between the 7th and 8th centuries. Protector of lepers and the lame, he was particularly popular in the Middle Ages, so much so that he became the patron saint of Edinburgh. Inside, don't miss the central pillars, the oldest witnesses of the place, nor the stained glass windows which are impressive. Also worth seeing are the stained glass window dedicated to the poet Robert Burns, the statue of John Knox and the quotation that sums up the character's commitment: "Give me Scotland or I die", the authors' "corner" and the organ. The Thistle Chapel, built in 1911, has a richly decorated ceiling and carved woodwork of great aesthetic quality. For example, an angel can be seen playing the bagpipes. It is also possible to gain height with paying guided tours on the roof (beware, they are quickly sold out!). Volunteer guides are also present to tell you all about the secrets and beauties of the building. Masses are always celebrated in the building (on Sundays at 8, 10, 11.30 and 8 pm) and concerts are regularly organised.

Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see for lovers of art history, esotericism, symbolism, religious enthusiasts and fans of The Da Vinci Code. It will surprise you by the multiplicity of its stories: that of the green man in particular. We learn that the face of the green man is none other than that of Adam, reminding us that we have within us the seeds of good and evil, and that we have the freedom to cultivate them. You will soon understand why the chapel is described as "a poem of stones, erected by the stars" (Thomas Ross) and why Queen Victoria declared it a jewel to be preserved. You will also discover that the place did not only inspire Dan Brown, but that before him, the great Scottish poets had praised it: Sir Walter Scott in The Lay of the Last Ministrel, but also Robert Burns. You will meet the chapel's cat who also has his own story... which will please the children! In fact, they too have their own tour of the chapel with a quiz and dedicated interactive terminals.

The chapel always offers religious services: on Sundays at 10:30 am and, between April and October, masses at 5:15 pm, as well as short prayers at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Warning: Be prepared for crowds, as this is a highly touristy and crowded place. However, the organization and the site are up to the number of visitors: multilingual and interactive visitor center, guided tours, café and store, large free parking.

Nicknamed the Iona of the East, this abbey is located on an island in the Firth of Forth. Inchcolm Abbey was founded as a priory in 1215 by David I, but Alexander I before him had already dreamed of building a place of worship there after taking refuge there during a storm. Surprisingly well preserved, it is one of the best preserved monastic buildings in Scotland. Remarkable objects include a humpbacked tombstone dating from the 10th century, a superb fresco of a funeral procession and an octagonal chapter house (1200s), as well as remarkable stone screens. The cloister is the most complete of its kind in Scotland, creating a moving atmosphere conducive to meditation. From the 14th to the 16th centuries, there were numerous English raids during the various Anglo-Scottish wars. In 1560, the Reformation put an end to its religious activity but the site remained occupied, particularly militarily. The island is also famous for its wildlife, seals and tusks from the First and Second World Wars

One of the most beautiful views is probably the one you get from the water, when the boat docks.

Practical info: Inchcolm Abbey can be visited by ferry from South Queensferry. Two companies serve the island and offer cruises, with or without a stopover on the island: Forth Boat Tours and Maid of the Forth. Count a 3-hour excursion for about £15 per adult, plus the cost of the site visit. Guided tours are available, as well as a quiz to make it more fun.

Dunfermline Abbey is the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce and the burial place of 11 kings and queens of Scotland. Founded as a priory, Dunfermline was transformed into an abbey by David I and later became a royal mausoleum. Its nave is particularly impressive and its Romanesque architecture of great beauty. You can take a walk in the monks' refectory and admire the breathtaking view of the valley from the palace's windows.

Founded in 1446, the Rosslyn Chapel has seen its popularity grow since Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code. It also (and above all) inspired Walter Scott's poem The Lay of the Last Ministrel. A guide will introduce you to the many treasures of the chapel. You can discover them with the help of explanatory sheets, free sheets or a paid booklet (in French) inviting you to a rich journey. Meet the famous "green man" and many myths. Indoor photos are prohibited, so as not to disturb visitors in large numbers.

Its three towers dominate the West End skyline and are visible from many places in Edinburgh, including Princes Street. The different phases of its construction spanned from 1874 to 1917 and the cathedral now has some beautiful neo-Gothic features. It is famous for its Paolozzi stained glass windows, Robert Lorimer's crucifix and massive organs. Its choir is one of the most active and recognized in the country.

St Magnus is the northernmost cathedral in Britain. Its construction began in 1137 and lasted 300 years. Its Romanesque architecture is one of the most interesting in Scotland. St Magnus, to whom it is dedicated, had a reputation for great kindness. During a raid from Norway against Anglesey, Wales, he refused to take part in the fighting and remained on the ship reciting psalms. King Eystein II granted him part of Orkney, which was then under the authority of his cousin, Hakon, and they ruled together from 1105 to 1114.

On the tiny island of Lamb Holm, between St Margaret's Hope and Kirkwall, lies this small chapel with a fascinating history. It was built by Italian prisoners of war during the Second World War. They began to build a real place of worship with everything they had at hand: military barracks, tin, concrete and wood. In spite of these makeshift raw materials, they managed to recreate a small architectural gem with a bell tower, columns, wall paintings and even an altar.

Founded in 1150, Dryburgh Abbey did not reach the levels of wealth of its neighbours, Melrose, Kelso and Jedburgh. Nevertheless, she was just as overwhelmed by the wars. In 1322, as King Edward II's army withdrew south, the soldiers set fire to it. It was one of three fires in his history. It remains a bewitching ruin. The cloister and some of the painted walls have survived admirably through the ages, but perhaps the main attraction is the tomb of Sir Walter Scott, which lies here not far from his sumptuous home.

Founded in 1136 by Cistercian monks, Melrose Abbey was heavily damaged by the English troops of Richard II in 1385. It was then completely rebuilt and most of the visible remains date from this period. Outside, some of the sculptures are very surprising, like goblin cooks and a pig playing the bagpipes. Inside, several Scottish kings are buried, like Alexander II. Above all, it contains the heart of Robert the Bruce, making it an important place of pilgrimage in the country.

The Beauly Priory is currently a ruin, but these remains, on the riverside, are a very pleasant visit for those who love religious heritage and mystical places, full of history and haloed with a certain magic. This priory is one of the three priories founded in Scotland around 1230 by the Valliscaulian order. This little-known order of monks originated in Dijon. He advocated poverty, chastity and obedience. Today, the walls of the abbey church remain, housing beautiful funerary monuments.

It is possible to reach Davaar Island on foot and at low tide during a short hike of 6.5 km, without big difference in altitude. You can explore the sea caves, including the famous crucifixion painting. You then reach the lighthouse further north. The itinerary is available for free on the walkhighlands.co.uk website.

Caution : This hike can only be done at low tide, otherwise you may get stuck. Make sure you get the information you need before leaving!

The building is relatively new, having been designed in 1846 and completed only in 1910. Initially a simple church, it became the cathedral of the diocese of Argyll in 1920. This cathedral does not impose from the outside. Nor is it absolutely grandiose on the inside. However, it deserves to be mentioned because it mixes, in an original and moving way, the spiritual dimension and industrial architecture. A Gothic church with industrial elements, riveted beams instead of stone columns, is not often seen.

To the north of Perth is the small town of Dunkeld with its cathedral, which is of great historical interest and was very influential before the Reformation. Built between 1250 and 1501, the cathedral is rich in different styles, ranging from Romanesque to Gothic. It is said that the relics of Saint Columba were kept here before being sent to Ireland. In 1689, the Battle of Dunkeld pitted the Jacobites against the Orangemen in the surrounding area, which was resolved by a victory for the latter. Today, the building is still used for services.