Greyfriars, Dumfries facts for kids
| Monastery information | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Dumfries Franciscan Friary |
| Order | Order of Friars Minor |
| Established | 13th century |
| Disestablished | 1559 |
| Dedicated to | Mary Magdalene |
| People | |
| Founder(s) | Lady Dervorguilla of Galloway |
| Site | |
| Location | Dumfries |
Greyfriars, Dumfries was once a friary in Dumfries, Scotland. It belonged to the Franciscans, also known as the Friars Minor. This religious house was built in the 1200s.
After a time, the friary was closed down in 1559. Its buildings were then taken apart and the land was made flat. Even today, a street in Dumfries called "Friars Vennel" reminds people of where the friary used to be. A different church, also called Greyfriars, was built in 1868. It stands on the site of an old castle, at the top of High Street.
A Famous Event at Greyfriars
The original Greyfriars friary is most famous for a very important event in Scottish history. This happened when John "the Red" Comyn was killed there. He was killed by Robert the Bruce and his supporters. This took place at the main altar inside the friary's chapel.
The Start of a War
This killing was a major turning point. It immediately led to a new war between Scotland and England. This conflict is known as the First War of Scottish Independence. Just seven weeks after the event at Greyfriars, Robert the Bruce was crowned King of Scots. This happened at Scone Palace.
Scotland's Independence
Robert the Bruce then led a long fight for Scotland to be a free country. His efforts finally paid off in 1328. That year, England signed the Treaty of Edinburgh–Northampton. This treaty officially recognized Scotland as an independent nation. The events at Greyfriars played a big part in starting this important journey for Scotland.
