Ardchattan Priory

Ardchattan Priory was a Valliscaulian monastic community situated in Ardchattan, Argyll, Scotland. Its history spans several centuries, marked by its founding, significant historical events, and eventual transformation and ruin.

History and Significance

The priory was established in 1230 by Duncan MacDougall, Lord of Argyll. A notable historical event occurred in 1308 when Robert the Bruce convened a council of local chiefs at the priory, an assembly widely believed to be the last Gaelic-speaking parliament in Scotland. From the early 14th century, the Prior of Ardchattan held the important position of chantership of Lismore Cathedral. By April 1510, the priory was incorporated as a cell of Beauly Priory, and there is some indication it may have become Cistercian, though evidence is slight. In 1615, the priory was annexed to the bishopric of the Isles.

Transformation and Decline

During the 16th century, Ardchattan Priory came under the control of Clan Campbell. They adapted the south range of the conventual buildings for use as a private dwelling. The choir and transepts of the church were utilized for parochial worship. Following the construction of a new parish church between 1731 and 1732, the monastic church fell into disuse, primarily serving as a burial site. Subsequently, the priory church was quarried for its stone, leading to its present heavily ruined state.

Architectural Remains and Gardens

Architecturally, the priory church was cruciform, featuring a small 13th-century nave and transepts, alongside a larger 15th-century choir. The surviving remains are complicated by two 17th-century burial enclosures. The stone screen that once separated the choir remains, as does a tomb chest and piscina further east. Though the nave has largely vanished, it once possessed a narrow north aisle. The cloister, measuring fifteen by sixteen meters, was located to the south of the church and is now largely built over by a later house. The 15th-century refectory is the sole surviving claustral building, though it was subdivided in 1713. The vaulted refectory pulpit has been restored. The priory structure, burial ground, and carved stones are recognized as a scheduled monument by Historic Environment Scotland.

The priory site also features significant gardens. While the monks would have maintained gardens for practical needs, the scenic location, offering views of Loch Etvie, Ben Cruachan, and the hills of Mull, was recognized and developed with the house in the early 17th century. Most of the current garden design dates from the 19th and 20th centuries, encompassing woodland and formal sections, shrub walks, a wildflower meadow, herbaceous beds, and a walled kitchen garden. The gardens are also listed by Historic Environment Scotland due to their historical, horticultural, and scenic importance. Legends suggest that the priory's yew trees were inspected by Robert the Bruce and used to craft longbows for the Battle of Bannockburn.