Tour Scotland photograph of St Vigeans Church, Arbroath, Angus, Scotland. The church of St Vigeans served as parish church to the inhabitants of Arbroath up to the Reformation. Built of the local red sandstone, it was a large and impressive example of a Scottish medieval parish kirk. Its situation on top of a prominent, steep-sided mound, presumably of glacial origin, though doubtless improved by landscaping, is striking. Dating in part from the 12th century, but largely 15th century in date, the church unfortunately underwent a drastic restoration in the late 19th century which, while it uncovered many Pictish fragments, also replaced most of the original architectural features of the church. It retains its internal round-pillared arcades, but all the doors and windows were renewed, so their original appearance has been lost. The western tower was also heightened and 'improved' by adding a castellated top and cap-house. There was once a legend that the kirk was built with stones used by an enslaved Kelpie, and for several years the local congregation would not enter the kirk during certain services for fear the building would collapse due to the Kelpie's curse.
All photographs are copyright of Sandy Stevenson, Tour Scotland, and may not be used without permission.
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