Melrose Abbey in the Rain

What better place to spend a rainy Sunday than an abbey in ruins? Melrose Abbey (St. Mary's Abbey) was founded by Cistercian Monks in 1136 (and is, therefore, a good 700 years older than pretty much any building in Winnipeg!).

Built in a gothic style, and in the form of a St. John's Cross this incredible structure is known for it's intricate detailing. 

The abbey withstood many attacks (mostly by the English) and was repaired and partially rebuilt several times throughout history.  

If you're up to the task of climbing a very steep, very narrow staircase in one of the towers (and aren't clausterphobic!) your reward is these amazing views over the land:

Aside from being a beautiful structure to look at, Melrose Abbey holds a special significance to the Scottish people, especially those who are proud of their country's fight for independence, now and historically. The heart of Robert the Bruce is buried here, marked by this stone on the grounds of the Abbey. 

Robert the Bruce is a national hero and is celebrated for fighting against the English and leading Scotland to independence. Not only is he a hero, but a symbol of freedom in a country that many feel has been under England's rule for far too long. This is a cause that is so important to the person whom I love, and I couldn't help but feel a bit emotional standing at this site. 

I'm not sure why it is, but the site is somewhere more beautiful because it's in ruin. 

If you can pry yourself away from the amazing sights inside the structure, the view from the riverwalk is equally incredible. 

I could easily spend an entire day wandering around these ground taking photos, but as the rain got heavier we had to make haste. On my next visit I'll be sure to capture more of the carving and figures as they are incredible too!