St Mary's College, St Andrews

St Mary's College is a university building in St Andrews featuring architecture from the 16th century arranged around a central courtyard with stone walkways. The northern and western ranges date to its founding period and frame the open space within.

Archbishop James Beaton founded the institution in 1538 as a stronghold for Catholic doctrine during religious upheaval. It later became a dedicated theological training center beginning in 1579.

The college functions as a center for theological learning and preparation where students engage with religious scholarship in historic surroundings. Walking through the spaces, one observes how daily academic life unfolds within these centuries-old buildings designed for teaching and reflection.

The building sits in the center of St Andrews and is easy to reach on foot, with clear entrances to the courtyard. Visitors should expect that some areas may have restricted access during academic term time.

A hawthorn tree grows in the courtyard, with historical records suggesting it was planted during Mary Queen of Scots' lifetime. This tree is one of the oldest living features on the site.

Location: Fife

Website: http://st-andrews.ac.uk/divinity

GPS coordinates: 56.33908,-2.79465

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51