description St Machar's Cathedral Overview
St Machar's Cathedral is a Church of Scotland congregation located in Old Aberdeen, Scotland. Originally founded in the 12th century as a Catholic cathedral, it is now categorized as a high kirk. The building is distinguished by its early 16th-century flat, wooden heraldic ceiling, which displays 48 intricately carved coats of arms of European monarchs and Scottish nobility. It serves as an active place of worship and a historical site for visitors interested in medieval Scottish architecture.
help St Machar's Cathedral FAQ
Where is St Machar's Cathedral?
St Machar's Cathedral is in Old Aberdeen, Scotland. The building belongs to a Church of Scotland congregation that is now categorized as a high kirk.
Is St Machar's Cathedral still a Catholic cathedral?
It was originally founded as a Catholic cathedral in the 12th century, but it is now a Church of Scotland congregation. Its present status is commonly described as a high kirk rather than a Catholic cathedral.
What is special about the ceiling at St Machar's Cathedral?
The building is known for its flat wooden heraldic ceiling dating from the early 16th century. The heraldic decoration is one of the clearest features that distinguishes the interior.
Why do people call St Machar's a cathedral if it is a high kirk?
The word reflects the building's original medieval cathedral role, which began in the 12th century. The present congregation is Church of Scotland, so its historical name and current status describe different parts of its story.
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