Introduction
If you are planning a trip to Scotland, make sure to add Beauly Priory to your itinerary. Located in the small town of Beauly, in the Scottish Highlands, this historical site is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in exploring the country’s rich heritage. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the fascinating history of Beauly Priory.
What is Beauly Priory?
Beauly Priory is a ruined medieval monastery that dates back to the 13th century. The priory was founded by Sir John Bisset, who dedicated it to the Valliscaulian order, a small and exclusive monastic order that originated in France. The Valliscaulian monks lived a simple and austere life, devoted to prayer, meditation, and manual labor.
Over the centuries, Beauly Priory grew in size and wealth, becoming one of the most important religious institutions in Scotland. The monks played a significant role in the local community, providing education, healthcare, and charity to the poor and needy. However, the priory’s prosperity came to an end in the 16th century, when the Scottish Reformation led to the dissolution of the monasteries.
Today, Beauly Priory is a ruin, with only a few walls and arches remaining. However, it still retains much of its original charm and beauty, and visitors can get a sense of what life was like for the monks who lived there.
Foundation and Early Years
Beauly Priory was founded in 1230 by Sir John Bisset, a wealthy landowner and knight from the Scottish Highlands. Bisset donated the land and funds necessary to establish a monastery for the Valliscaulian order, a small and exclusive monastic community that originated in France. The monks were known for their strict adherence to the Rule of St. Augustine, which emphasized poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Growth and Expansion
Over the next few centuries, Beauly Priory grew in size and wealth, becoming one of the most important religious institutions in Scotland. The monks played a significant role in the local community, providing education, healthcare, and charity to the poor and needy.
In 1384, the priory was granted a royal charter by King Robert II, which gave it additional privileges and exemptions from taxation. This helped to further boost its prosperity, and by the 15th century, the priory had become one of the largest landowners in the region.
Decline and Dissolution
The Scottish Reformation, which began in the 16th century, marked the beginning of the end for Beauly Priory. The Reformation was a period of religious and political upheaval in Scotland, during which the country broke away from the Catholic Church and embraced Protestantism.
In 1560, the Scottish Parliament passed the Reformation Acts, which led to the dissolution of the monasteries and the confiscation of their lands and assets. Beauly Priory was one of the many religious institutions that fell victim to these laws, and the monks were forced to abandon the priory and go into hiding.
Restoration and Preservation
Despite its abandonment, Beauly Priory remained a prominent landmark in the area, and over the centuries, various efforts were made to preserve and restore the ruins. In the 19th century, the priory was acquired by the Lovat family, who undertook extensive restoration work and ensured that the site was protected for future generations.
Today, Beauly Priory is managed by Historic Environment Scotland, and it remains one of the most important and well-preserved examples of medieval monastic architecture in Scotland. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the fascinating history of the priory and the monks who once called it home.
Why Visit Beauly Priory?
If you are interested in history and architecture, Beauly Priory is definitely worth a visit. The ruins are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the medieval builders, and the site offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the Valliscaulian monks.
In addition to its historical significance, Beauly Priory is also located in a picturesque setting, surrounded by lush green fields and rolling hills. The priory is also close to other popular tourist attractions in the area, such as the Beauly Firth and the Caledonian Canal.
How to Visit Beauly Priory?
Beauly Priory is open to the public year-round, and admission is free. Visitors can explore the ruins at their own pace, and there are information boards throughout the site that provide historical context and information.
The priory is located in the center of Beauly, and there is ample parking nearby. If you are traveling by public transportation, the town is served by regular buses from Inverness and other nearby towns.
Conclusion
Beauly Priory is a hidden gem in the Scottish Highlands, and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and religious heritage. With its fascinating history, beautiful setting, and free admission, it’s easy to see why Beauly Priory is becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction. So, why not add it to your Scottish itinerary and discover the magic of this ancient monastic site?
