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Sweetheart Abbey (HS)

New Abbey, Nr Dumfries

This splendid late 13th and early 14th century Cistercian abbey was founded by Devorgilla, Lady of Galloway, in memory of her husband John Balliol.On his death in 1269 she had his heart embalmed and placed in a casket of ivory bound with enameled silver. She carried this ‘sweet silent companion' with her until her own death aged 80 in 1289. She was buried before the high altar, together with the casket containing her husband's heart.As a tribute to her love the monks chose the name of ‘Dulce Cor' or ‘Sweetheart' for their abbey.After the Reformation in 1560, the abbey, with its cloisters, refectory and other buildings, was gradually demolished and its stone used elsewhere. The roofless abbey church was acquired in 1779 by some local gentlemen, anxious to preserve it as an ‘Ornament to that part of their country'.

Opening Times

March - September: Monday - Sunday 9.30am - 6.30pm. October - March: Saturday - Wednesday, 9.30am - 4.30pm. Closed Thursday and Friday. Closed 25th, 26th December and 1st, 2nd January.