The Abbey was founded in 1150 by King David I and was colonised by Cistercian monks from Melrose Abbey. Kinloss Abbey was important in Scotland’s history and in its heyday was an impressive and very beautiful building. There were episodes of destruction and rebuilding through the years but the Reformation in the 16th century spelled the end of the Abbey as a main religious centre. Thereafter, ownership of the Abbey changed several times, the buildings fell into ruin and much of the stone was sold.
Information boards around the grounds give an insight into the fascinating history of the Abbey and its Abbots.
The grounds contain many interesting tombstones, some dating back to the 17th century. There is also Commonwealth War Graves section where a number of Airmen from the nearby Royal Air Force Station are buried.
Kinloss Abbey is administered by a Trust who are involved in raising money to conserve what is left of the ancient buildings.
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