The History of Maryculter Parish Kirk

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Maryculter kirk and it's graveyards are situated in the village of Kirkton of Maryculter, which is approximately 5 miles out the Lower Deeside road from the Bridge of Dee. Built in 1787 in the traditional rectangular shape which was extended in 1882 to the cruciform shape that you see today, which is a feature of many mediaeval churches. The new extension to the hall will further emphasise the base of the cross, adding, to the old, new facilities which extend the traditional ministry into the twenty-first century.

The original kirk which is near to Maryculter House was dedicated to St Mary and Maryculter was held by the Templars in medieval times, hence the locally named Templars Park.

A brief history of the Knights of the Temple

The Templars first came to Scotland in 1128 during the Reign of King David I, while remaining close to the King, the Knights did not involve themselves in political life as it is not until the 1160's that they start appearing as witnesses to Royal Charters. As a result of this Royal favour, the Templars were gifted some property holdings at Maryculter by the King and his Court. The gift of the property at Maryculter was made in 1225 and this land was originally held by the Monks of Kelso, by gifting this to the Templars the Monks were told that this would not prejudice their rights to the area. However by 1287 this Oath had been broken, the Monks only retained the rights to the lands on the north side of the river. Later, the Knights built their own Chapel within the grounds of the Maryculter remains of which can still be seen on the old site near Maryculter House.

If you have any historic facts about the kirk or the parish you think should be included on this site please contact us.

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