The most beautiful religious buildings EST

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.

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.

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.