On the same day that we visited Abbotsford we managed to squeeze in a visit to the nearby town of Melrose, mainly to have a look at Melrose Abbey. As you can see – it’s another ruin.
It was King David I who in 1136 asked Cistercian monks to found an abbey in Melrose.
Between Jack and myself we took loads of photos of the abbey and its surroundings.
One of the information boards told us to look out for the carving of a pig playing the bagpipes, and we found it, we had to hike up 72 steep and narrow steps of a spiral staircase to reach the very top of the abbey, and from there you can look down on the pig. Whoever designed the place had a sense of humour anyway.
As this abbey is situated in the Scottish Borders it got more than its fair share of attention from English invaders, including Edward II’s army and later Richard II’s army. Then Henry VIII had a go at it; given all that – it’s surprising there’s anything left of it at all!
What a beautiful building – obviously strong enough to endure centuries and depredations, yet still gives an impression of grace and lightness.
Valerie,
It is an interesting place to visit, especially on a nice bright day. There’s also a museum that you can visit to see some of the bits and pieces that have been dug up over the years.
What an awesome place! I love those small details like the pig playing the bagpipes!
Joan,
I love to see the evidence of people having a sense of humour. I’m sure they were just like us!
What a glorious day with cloudless blue skies you had for this visit! When abouts did you take these photos? The photos are spectacular, and so crystal-clear–fascinating. What a tour!
Judith,
The photos were taken at the beginning of October, but it was one of those Indian summer days, really quite hot, but our standards!
What a beautiful place. I love the pig!
Stefanie,
It’s great to think that all those years ago the stonemasons or some designer had a good sense of humour.