Pluscarden Abbey interior
A community of catholic monks live here in the only medieval British monastery still being used for its original purpose. The abbey is situated in a quiet glen (valley) in north-east Scotland, six miles south-west of Elgin. Men and women of all faiths are welcome to make a retreat there and to share in the prayer and work of the community, or simply to rest and renew their focus on what is most important.
A monastery was established here in 1230 by King Alexander II. In 1454 it became a Priory by Papal Bull. However over time it fell into disrepair and by 1680 it was a ruin.
In 1948 restoration started and by 1974 Abbey status was re-established. Today a thriving community of Benedictine monks live here and it's not unusual for individuals or small groups of them to be seen walking on the lanes and footpaths of the area.
Pluscarden Abbey interior
A community of catholic monks live here in the only medieval British monastery still being used for its original purpose. The abbey is situated in a quiet glen (valley) in north-east Scotland, six miles south-west of Elgin. Men and women of all faiths are welcome to make a retreat there and to share in the prayer and work of the community, or simply to rest and renew their focus on what is most important.
A monastery was established here in 1230 by King Alexander II. In 1454 it became a Priory by Papal Bull. However over time it fell into disrepair and by 1680 it was a ruin.
In 1948 restoration started and by 1974 Abbey status was re-established. Today a thriving community of Benedictine monks live here and it's not unusual for individuals or small groups of them to be seen walking on the lanes and footpaths of the area.