Jedburgh Abbey

The abbey's origins trace back to the 9th century when Bishop Ecgred of Lindisfarne built an initial church in the area. In 1118, David I summoned Augustinian monks from France to Jedburgh, thereby founding the monastery. Initially run as a priory, it was elevated to an independent abbey dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary after David I's death around 1147. The nave and choir were constructed in the 13th century, and in 1285, King Alexander III married Yolande of Dreux here. The abbey owned extensive lands in Southern Scotland and Northumberland. Due to its strategic location and wealth, Jedburgh Abbey was repeatedly targeted by attacks and looting, particularly during the Scottish-English wars. After the Scottish defeat at Stirling in 1297, it was devastated by the English but later restored by Robert the Bruce.