Montrose Mausoleum

The Montrose Mausoleum sits within St Kattan's Churchyard and displays classical architectural details characteristic of 18th-century design. The structure features balanced proportions and carefully executed stonework that mark it as a significant example of funeral architecture from this era.

William Adam designed this memorial in 1736, with his young son John contributing to the project at just 15 years old. The mausoleum served as a burial place for the Montrose family until 1836 when the final interment was placed within.

The structure reflects how Scottish aristocracy honored their dead, with the Montrose family using this site as their family burial ground across multiple generations. Such private vaults became central to how noble families marked their status and continuity.

The structure stands in a churchyard setting where it can be reached on foot, though you should be prepared for uneven ground typical of historic burial grounds. The site remains active as a cemetery, so visiting at quieter times is considerate.

A carved inscription on the northern wall documents the young architect's son working on the project alongside his father. Most visitors miss this detail, yet it offers a rare window into the working relationship between the two designers.

Location: Perth and Kinross

Location: Auchterarder

GPS coordinates: 56.31717,-3.66113

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:20