History of the Stewarts | Castles and Buildings
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Elgin Cathedral - Majestic 13th century cathedral
The cathedral was the ecclesiastical centre, the spiritual heart, of the diocese of Moray. The bishop’s cathedral, or seat, was not always at Elgin – it had previously been at nearby Kinneddar, Birnie and Spynie – but once it was transferred to Elgin around 1224, it remained there until the Protestant Reformation of 1560 effectively left the cathedral redundant.
Elgin cathedral is known as the ‘Lantern of the North’. From the time of its construction in the first half of the 13th century, through to the Reformation in 1560, this large and impressive building dominated the flat and fertile Laich of Moray. Though much of the nave is reduced to foundations, the rest stills stands remarkably complete. Most awe-inspiring of all is the spectacular west front, flanked by two tall towers. In the centre is the processional entrance, dating from about 1270. Eight orders of engaged shafts step diagonally towards the doors, and carry finely-moulded orders of arches. The two doorway arches, with their oval recess above, once housing a representation of the Holy Trinity, and still flanked by adoring angels, were added in the early 15th century.
The Society visited here in 2019 on the Annual Gathering
More information about Elgin Cathedral can be found on the Historic Scotland website www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Elgin cathedral is known as the ‘Lantern of the North’. From the time of its construction in the first half of the 13th century, through to the Reformation in 1560, this large and impressive building dominated the flat and fertile Laich of Moray. Though much of the nave is reduced to foundations, the rest stills stands remarkably complete. Most awe-inspiring of all is the spectacular west front, flanked by two tall towers. In the centre is the processional entrance, dating from about 1270. Eight orders of engaged shafts step diagonally towards the doors, and carry finely-moulded orders of arches. The two doorway arches, with their oval recess above, once housing a representation of the Holy Trinity, and still flanked by adoring angels, were added in the early 15th century.
The Society visited here in 2019 on the Annual Gathering
More information about Elgin Cathedral can be found on the Historic Scotland website www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Reference: Historic Scotland
