Dunblane Cathedral
Sightseeing attraction | Dunblane | Scotland | United Kingdom
The Dunblane Cathedral is an impressive example of Scottish church architecture and a significant historical landmark in Dunblane, Scotland. Its origins date back to the 7th century when Saint Blane founded a Christian community at this site. The current structure is mostly from the 13th century and was built during the term of Bishop Clement.
Architecture and Construction History
The cathedral combines various architectural styles reflecting its long history of construction. The lower part of the tower dates back to the 11th century and is pre-Romanesque, while the upper part was added in the 15th century. The majority of the rest of the building is Gothic and from the 13th century. Notable are the well-preserved medieval woodwork, including choir stalls with intricately carved misericords.
Historical Significance
Originally, Dunblane Cathedral was the seat of the Bishops of Dunblane until the episcopate was abolished after the Glorious Revolution in 1689. Following the abolition of the episcopate, the cathedral choir was used as a parish church, while the nave fell into disrepair and its roof collapsed around 1600. In the late 19th century, the cathedral was restored and the nave was re-roofed.
Restoration and Current Use
The comprehensive restoration of the cathedral took place between 1889 and 1893 under the direction of architect Robert Rowand Anderson. Today, Dunblane Cathedral serves as an active parish church of the Church of Scotland and is a significant cultural and spiritual center of the community. The cathedral is cared for by Historic Environment Scotland and is accessible to visitors.
Highlights Inside
Inside the cathedral, there are several notable monuments and artifacts, including:
- Early Christian stones: Two early Christian stones, a cross slab and a possible architectural frieze, originating from an early medieval church at this site.
- Burial sites: The cathedral houses the graves of significant figures such as Margaret Drummond, a mistress of King James IV of Scotland, and her two sisters, all poisoned in the 16th century.
- Memorial stone: A memorial stone by sculptor Richard Kindersley commemorates the events of March 13, 1996, known as the Dunblane massacre.
The Dunblane Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a testimony to the rich history and culture of Scotland. A visit provides insights into the architectural development over the centuries and the significant events that have shaped this sacred place.
