We left Dundee on our way to Arbroath. We spend so much time in Dundee that time was running out and, we had to start making decisions about what places of interest on our list we were going to skip. The roads were busy and, I took the wrong turn off. Had to get someplace to turn around to at least take a photo of the Declaration of Arbroath.
Arbroath was the location of the Battle of Arbroath in 1446. A series of disagreements between the Chief Justiciary of Arbroath, Alexander Lindsay, third Earl of Crawford, and Bishop James Kennedy of St Andrews resulted in Lindsay sacking the bishop’s lands and burning his properties. Lindsay was excommunicated for his troubles and, it was felt that this was incompatible with his role as Chief Justiciary. The monks of Arbroath Abbey selected Alexander Ogilvy of Inverquharity as his replacement and, the insult led to a pitched battle in the town, leaving 500 dead, including Lindsay and Ogilvy. Large parts of Arbroath were destroyed in the aftermath by the Lindsay family.
Arbroath Abbey was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion for a group of Tironensian Benedictine monks from Kelso Abbey. It was consecrated in 1197 with a dedication to the deceased Saint Thomas Becket, whom the king had met at the English court. It was William’s only foundation — he was buried before the high altar of the church in 1214.
The last Abbot was Cardinal David Beaton, who in 1522 succeeded his uncle James to become Archbishop of St Andrews. The Abbey is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is open to the public throughout the year. The distinctive red sandstone ruins stand at the top of the High Street in Arbroath. Unfortunately, dad and I ran out of time and, the Abbey had already closed. I took some photos through the fence.
Thank you very much for taking the time to join me on my travels. I hope you enjoyed it just as much as I did.
Till next time, safe travels and keep dreaming.
Have a fabulous day.
Coreen
“Stop dreaming about your bucket list and start living it.” ~Annette White
Thanks for sharing this part of history. I would love to visit the Abroath Abbey and you captured it so nicely in your photographs. Thanks for making me travel to Scotland this monring! Marcella
Good day, Marcella.
It is my pleasure. Glad you enjoyed your visit to a piece of Scotland this morning.
Thank you very much for stopping by and leaving me some positive feedback. I am grateful for your support.
Coreen