Burntisland Church of Scotland
Central Fife
Built between 1592 - 95 this is the oldest Post-Reformation church still in use in Scotland, and is historically important as being one of the first churches built in Scotland after the Reformation, with a highly distinctive and probably wholly original Scottish square plan design, which is unique in Scotland, with members of the congregation sitting on all four sides of the church with the pulpit and communion table in the centre.
The interior of the church is notable for its many carved and painted wooden panels depicting the maritime professions and trades of the town. The ornate 'Magistrate's Pew dates to 1606 and the organ was paid for by Andrew Carnegie.
In 1601, due to the plague in Edinburgh, King James VI moved his court to Burntisland to stay at Rossend Castle, the home of Sir Robert Melville. On 12th May that year he held the General Assembly within the Parish Church. During that meeting it was agreed by all present, and consented by the King, to commission a new modern English translation of the Bible, and in 1611 the King James Bible or the ‘Authorised Version’ was first printed.
Tours will take place throughout the day, and if requested can be arranged outwith the times and dates stated, but booking will be required.
Facilities
Gallery
Key Information
NO BOOKING REQUIRED FOR THE DAY
Stewards will be present at the venue.
Additional tours can be arranged via annpatsmith96@gmail.com
Where to find us
Address
- East Leven Street
- Burntisland
- KY3 9DX
