History

Dunfermline is one of the oldest settlements in Scotland. As well as the ancient abbey, there is also evidence of Iron and even Bronze Age settlements on the site.

The abbey pictured here dates back over 900 years to the time of King Malcolm and Queen Margaret, later Saint Margaret. The town was the capital of Scotland for more than 500 years and the ruins of the ancient palace adjoin the abbey complex.

Today's abbey is dominated by the modern parish church which bears the name 'King Robert The Bruce' around its central tower. This great hero of Scotland was buried beneath the abbey, and his heart was removed and send to Melrose abbey in the Borders. When the parish church was built in 1821 his body was re-interred beneath the pulpit of the abbey. His final resting place is now marked with a spectacular brass plaque.

In more recent times, the town was the birthplace to Andrew Carnegie who spent his early childhood in Dunfermline before emigrating to the 'new world' of America with his family. He later made his millions in the Pittsburgh steel industry, then returned to gift many of the towns greatest treasures including the Carnegie Hall, Pittencrieff Park and the towns central library. He also founded many universities and colleges around the world including Dunfermline's Lauder College and Carnegie Mellon University in the USA.

Related Web Sites

Culross.org

Culross is a small village in West Fife which boasts many historical buildings - some dating back to the 16th and 17th Century. As well as photos of these buildings, the site also contains information on local events, places to stay in the village, as well as local business. You can also view pictures of the village on our Pictures Page.

Annals of Dunfermline

Ebenezer Henderson's definitive tome on the history of the town examines in some detail the history of the area from 1069 to 1873. This web version was created because the authors failed to find a publisher who was interested in republishing this extensive, and very informative work.

Carnegie Birthplace Museum

The cottage where Carnegie was born was extended to house a museum of his life. The original cottage houses a display depicting life in the typical weavers cottage, which is where Carnegie was born.

Abbot House

The Abbot House is where the Abbots of Dunfermline once stayed. It has recently been completely refurbished and now houses a visitors centre which details the history of both the town and the building itself. There is also a small café and gift shop.