Saturday, August 11, 2007

St Monans Fife

St Monans church is situated within its kirkyard just to the west of the village on the very edge of the sea. It is indeed said to be the church nearest the sea in the whole of Scotland. The church, one of the finest remaining from the Middle Ages in Scotland, was built by King David II Bruce (1329-71), initially for a small house of Dominican friars. It later became the Church of Scotland parish church. Though the church may never have been finished (it lacks a nave), it has many features of architectural interest, notably the fine stone vaulting in the choir and the simple but handsome sedilia. White-washed throughout internally, the church is particularly light and attractive among ancient Scottish churches.
Major restoration to the windows and masonry was completed in March 2007. The church is open to visitors daily from April - October.
St Monans Parish Church is linked with Largoward Parish Church. The current minister of both parish churches is the Revd Dr Donald MacEwan.

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