Ardchattan Priory facts for kids
The Ardchattan Priory was a special religious community in Ardchattan, Argyll, Scotland. It was home to monks from a group called the Valliscaulian order. This order was a small group of monks from Burgundy, France.
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History of Ardchattan Priory
When Was Ardchattan Priory Built?
The Priory was started in 1230. It was founded by Duncan MacDougal, who was the Lord of Argyll. His family, Clan MacDougall, was very powerful in the area.
Ardchattan Priory and Clan Chattan
Many people believe that Clan Chattan got its start here. Clan MacDougal might have chosen Gillichattan Mor to protect the Priory's lands. He would have been like a manager or guardian for the monks.
Robert the Bruce's Visit
In 1308, Robert the Bruce was fighting in this area. He held an important meeting of local chiefs at the Priory. This meeting is thought to be the last parliament in Scotland where everyone spoke only Gaelic.
Changes Over Time
From the early 1300s, the leader of Ardchattan Priory, called the Prior of Ardchattan, also had a special role at Lismore Cathedral. He was in charge of the singing there.
In 1510, Ardchattan Priory became connected to Beauly Priory. It might have even become part of the Cistercian order, but we don't have much proof. Later, in 1615, it was joined with the area led by the Bishop of the Isles.
What Happened to the Priory Buildings?
In the 1500s, the Priory was taken over by Clan Campbell. They changed part of the monks' living area into a private house. The main church parts were used for local church services. However, a new church was built in 1731–32. After that, the old monastic church was mostly used only for burials.
Exploring the Priory Buildings
What Remains of the Priory Today?
Today, you can still see parts of the original church from the 1200s. These include the south transept and its small chapels. You can also find signs of additions made in the 1400s and early 1500s. These include the choir, burial areas, and a sacristy. A sacristy is a room where priests prepare for services.
Carved Stones and Ancient Status
Inside the ruins, there are also many old carved stones. These stones tell stories or show designs from the past. The Priory buildings, the burial ground, and these carved stones are all very important. They are protected as a scheduled ancient monument by Historic Environment Scotland. This means they are a special historical site.
The Beautiful Gardens
A Garden for Centuries
The Ardchattan Priory Gardens have been around for over 700 years! The Valliscaulian monks first started a garden here. They chose a great spot on the north shore of Loch Etive. The garden faces south, getting lots of sun. It has amazing views of Ben Cruachan to the east and the hills of Mull to the west.
What Grows in the Gardens?
The gardens are home to many types of plants. You can find beautiful roses and colorful flower beds. There are also over thirty different kinds of trees.
When you enter, paths lead you through areas with shrubs. The soil is good for many plants. You can see large trees like Cornus kousa and Eucryphia glutinosa. Scented roses and philadelphus also grow here. A newer part of the garden is a wild flower meadow under various sorbus trees. There are also large grassy areas, more flower beds, and a rockery.
Protected Gardens
Like the Priory buildings, the gardens are also listed by Historic Environment Scotland. They are valued for their long history, beautiful plants, and stunning views.
The Famous Yew Trees
Ardchattan Priory is known for its ancient yew trees (Taxus baccata). Some stories say that Robert the Bruce himself inspected these trees. He supposedly had their wood cut to make longbows. These bows were then used in the famous Battle of Bannockburn.
Burials at the Priory
See also
In Spanish: Priorato de Ardchattan para niños
