Arbroath Abbey

Arbroath Abbey is located in Abbey Street, Arbroath, Angus, Scotland (Scottish Gaelic: Obar Bhrothaig, Aonghas, Alba). This is an abbey founded in 1178 by King William the Lion. William the Lion (Gaelic: Uilleam mac Eanraig c. 1142 – 4 December 1214) reigned as King of Scots from 1165 until his death in to 1214 after which he was buried in front of the abbey’s high altar. The abbey is famously associated with the 1320 Declaration of Scottish Independence.

The Abbey fell into ruin after the Reformation and after 1590 many of its stones were taken and used for buildings in the town of Arbroath. This was stopped after 1815 when steps were taken to preserve the remaining ruins. The west font of the sandstone abbey is the most complete part of the remaining building. The presbytery, sacristy and south transept are also largely intact. As is the abbot’s house, the gatehouse, the guesthouse and a substantial stretch of precinct wall.

It was at Arbroath Abbey in 1951 that the Stone of Destiny, captured by Edward 1, was found after it's return to Scotland by a group of Scottish nationalists who took it from Westminster Abbey. Although returned to London the stone was eventually given back in 1996 and is now at Edinburgh castle. Arbroath Abbey is under the care of Historic Environment Scotland - Àrainneachd Eachdraidheil Alba and is open to the public daily throughout the year.

Image: Arbroath Abbey image courtesy of BBC Scotland.

Link: Historic Environment Scotland - Àrainneachd Eachdraidheil Alba Arbroath Abbey.