The Howff, Historical cemetery and category A listed building in central Dundee, Scotland
Description
The Howff is a category A listed cemetery in central Dundee containing more than 80,000 burials and approximately 1,000 tombstones carved with trade emblems and symbols of mortality. The grounds feature distinct sections with documented memorial stones connected by walking paths.
History
The site originated as a Franciscan monastery orchard before Mary Queen of Scots granted it to Dundee in 1564 for use as a burial ground. This transfer established the town's first permanent cemetery.
Culture
The burial ground hosted guild gatherings where local craft associations conducted their yearly business meetings until the practice ended in 1776. Stonemasons, tailors, and bakers held their important discussions among the graves.
Practical
Access to the burial ground is through the main entrance on Meadowside, where marked paths guide visitors through different sections of the grounds. The terrain is generally walkable, though the site includes both level and slightly raised areas as an active burial place.
Did you know?
A two-foot marker in the northwest section holds a local legend about Grissel Jaffray, where visitors leave coins as a custom. This practice keeps the story of the place alive and connects visitors to those buried there.
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