Once an influential capital and now Scotland’s newest city, Dunfermline is full of character, spirit and history, not to mention the odd peacock or two
ONA CALM and bright May afternoon, the sun glints off the sandstone of Dunfermline’s abbey. Sweetly scented cherry blossom gently floats down from branches; birds and bees busy themselves in the park and gardens; and there is the occasional cry of a peacock.
In such a quietly bustling setting, it is hard to imagine this city as holding a commanding position in Scotland’s political landscape, yet Dunfermline began its story as a seat of power following the marriage of King Malcolm III of Scotland to Queen Margaret in 1069. In more recent times, it has undergone a resurgence following its promotion to city status, as part of Queen Elizabeth II’s jubilee celebrations, becoming Scotland’s eighth city in May 2022.
Located just 18 miles north of Edinburgh, from a visitor’s perspective, Dunfermline is a treat. Its sights, stories and history can all be explored on foot within its remarkably compact Heritage Quarter, where most of the key attractions are free to visit. On a fine spring day, exploring the historic buildings; strolling through the city’s famous Pittencrieff Park; and uncovering the legacy of Dunfermline’s founding mothers and fathers can be highly recommended.
Dunfermline Abbey
A key starting point to help any visitor understand the city is its abbey. In 1070, Queen Margaret, who was a notably pious woman, established the first Benedictine priory here on the site where she and Malcolm III wed. Granddaughter of the English King Edmund Ironside and daughter of Edward the Exile, Margaret was born in Hungary and was inspired by and knowledgeable of both European and English religion. When she arrived in Scotland, she wished to share and unite her ecclesiastical experiences and make a religious mark in Dunfermline. Monks were sent north to Dunfermline from Canterbury to form a monastic community.
Margaret’s inclusive piety was recognised by Pope Innocent IV when she was canonised in 1249. A new chapel and shrine were erected to honour her, and they were visited by a steady flow of pilgrims over the centuries, bringing wealth and footfall to the area. Today the shrine base remains, made of Frosterley marble – a distinctive, dark grey limestone, containing fossils – from County Durham. It is set just outside the church, complete with a water basin, where sacred vessels were washed.
