About Scotland

Scottish Abbeys and Churches

History

Scottish Abbeys and Churches

This shield is the symbol of St Bernard of Clairvaux who established the Cistercian Order in the 12th C. Melrose Abbey was the first Cistercian house north of the border and has some of the finest mediaeval stone carving in Scotland.

Arms of St Bernard Melrose Abbey

The symbol of St Norbert, founder of the Praemonstratensian Order which began building Dryburgh Abbey in 1152. Today the ruins lie in rural parkland, peaceful and secluded by the River Tweed.

Arms of St Bernard Dryburgh Abbey

Whithorn Priory, founded by St Ninian in 397 AD; the oldest Christian settlement in Scotland and once one of the most important places of pilgrimage in Scotland.

Whithorn Priory Cross Whithorn Priory

Other History and Culture pages: Castles and Houses and Cultural Landmarks