Birnie Kirk

57°36′41″N 3°19′48″W / 57.61139°N 3.33000°W / 57.61139; -3.33000

Birnie Kirk, the first Cathedral Church of Moray, built c. 1140

Birnie Kirk is a 12th century parish church located near Elgin, in Moray, Scotland. It was the first cathedral of the Bishop of Moray and is one of the oldest in Scotland to have been in continuous use. The graveyard, symbol stone and archaeological remains under the church have been designated a scheduled monument by Historic Environment Scotland.

BBC News reported on 22nd November 2023 that, "The 12th Century building is due to close by 2027, as the Church of Scotland undergoes what has been described as 'radical reform' amid falling congregations. The building will continue to be maintained by the Kirk Session pending its release, a Church of Scotland spokesman said in a statement."[1] [1]

  1. ^ Farquhar, Davina. "CLOSURE OF CHURCH BUILDINGS". Birnie and Pluscarden Church of Scotland. Retrieved 7 January 2024.