Dunfermline Abbey

Dunfermline Abbey is a Romanesque abbey built from sandstone in the heart of Dunfermline, its pale tower with 19th-century Gothic windows rising above the town. The medieval arches in the north wall of the church still show the original Norman style with massive round pillars and carved stonework.

In 1128 David I turned an earlier church built by his mother into this abbey and granted it to Benedictine monks. Over the following centuries the site was expanded several times and after destruction during the Reformation in the 16th century it was rebuilt as a parish church.

The ancient walls surrounding the church now serve as a cemetery where Dunfermline residents come for quiet walks. The exposed stone foundations reveal the layout of the former monastery buildings with cloister, chapter house, and refectory that shaped monastic life in medieval times.

The ruins are freely accessible and stand right on the main road through central Dunfermline. A small museum next door offers information on the history and displays finds recovered from the grounds.

Beneath the church floor in the chancel lie the remains of Robert the Bruce, whose grave was only rediscovered in 1818 during building work. A bronze memorial plaque bearing his name is now set into the stone floor directly in front of the altar.

Location: Fife

Location: Dunfermline

Inception: 12 century

Architects: William Burn

Architectural style: Romanesque architecture

Website: http://dunfermlineabbey.co.uk

GPS coordinates: 56.06970,-3.46354

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:45