Elgin Cathedral
Described by one former Bishop as the 'ornament of the realm' the tall sandstone ruins of Elgin Cathedral are indeed an embellishment the small town of Elgin can be proud of.
Elgin Cathedral dates back to the early 13th Century and would have been one of the most important places of worship when the Moray region was at the height of its prosperity. Originally a much smaller structure, the cathedral was enlarged in the late 13th Century and would have been among the most advanced buildings in Scotland . But in 1390 the cathedral was put to the torch by Alexander Stewart, earl of Buchan, the Wolf of Badenoch. After he was excommunicated by the Bishop he wrought revenge by descending on Elgin with a band of 'wyld wykkyd Helandmen' and burnt the cathedral. Though it was restored to its former glory in the 15th and 16th century, it didn't outlive the reformation and after the roof was removed the sandstone structure was left to the elements.
Despite this much of the cathedral's decorative features can still be seen, such as the coat of arms of Bishop Columba of Dunbar with those of King James I and the see of Moray, installed in the mid 1400s. A similar feature can be found at Jedburgh Abbey. The chapter house remains extremely close as it was rebuilt in the 15th Century, albeit protected by a modern roof. But one of the most fascinating features is the Pictish cross slab displaying a hunting scene through pictish symbols. Today restoration is ongoing to preserve this sandstone structure for future generations.
This attraction is included in the Great British Heritage Pass.
