2024

ST CLEMENT'S CHURCH

Churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels

Built in the early 16th century, this noble medieval church is the work of Alasdair Crotach MacLeod of Harris & Dunvegan, eighth chief of the MacLeod clan. It is one of the most ambitious buildings in the Outer Hebrides, and its form is attributable to the people's former ties with Ireland. He was buried here when he died in 1547 and his tomb is of great beauty. Some of his descendants lie there with him and the stelae and sculptures are impressive. History lovers will be conquered.

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 Harris
2024

KELSO ABBEY

Abbey monastery and convent

Taken out of the ground in 1128, Kelso Abbey was one of the wealthiest in the country during the Middle Ages. Its Romanesque style was of great quality and it had many churches, schools and farms in the Cheviot Hills. Unfortunately, the raids of the English King Henry VIII caused him much damage in the 1540s, when his son's union with the young Mary Stuart had been annulled. Although only a part of its former glory remains, you can still enjoy its unique architecture and cloister.

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 Kelso
2024

CATHEDRAL DUNWHITE

Churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels

This cathedral covers several periods, from the 11th to the 15th century. This gives it an interesting mix of styles, with some pre-Romanesque parts, such as the base of its tower, contrasting with the rest of the building, which is mostly Gothic. Andy Murray was married here, and there is also a memorial stele in memory of the victims of the massacre of March 13, 1996. You can see the grave of Mary Drummond, a mistress of James VI, and her two sisters, who were all allegedly poisoned... Guided tours are offered on Sundays in summer (2pm and 4pm).

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 Dunblane-Doune
2024

CHURCH OF THE HOLY RUDE

Churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels

Don't think it's the church of the Holy Evil! Here, rough comes from the Scottish rood, which means cross, as in Holyrood Abbey. Founded in the 12th century, the building that stands here today dates from the 15th century, making it the oldest in the city after the castle. James VI was crowned by John Knox in 1587 and its characteristics are magnificent. The organ, first of all, but also the medieval wooden roof, the stunning stained glass windows and the imposing pillars. A little piece of history worth a look.

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 Stirling
2024

CANONGATE KIRK

Churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels

This church, which had begun renovation work in 1991, is special in many respects. The famous King David, who saw a white stag crowned with a cross, is represented here everywhere, which gives the perfect opportunity to (re)discover the story. It also houses a Second World War memorial chapel where a glass box with Dunkirk sand is displayed in commemoration of the D-Day landings. Finally, it is recognized as the capital's military church and is the one adopted by the Royal Scots (Royal Regiment) in 1983.

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 Edinburgh
2024

SAINT CONAN'S KIRK

Churches cathedrals basilicas and chapels

This small church, built on top of the loch, is as discreet as it is visited. Seen from the road, it seems rather banal, but by entering and admiring it from the loch, one realizes that it is a real jewel of religious architecture and a jewel of heritage. Sculptures and details are legion for the play of symbols and omnipresent lights. One of them is a magnificent lying down, which is none other than Robert the Bruce. Indeed, the church holds a relic - a bone fragment - of this great historical figure.

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 Dalmally