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History of Christianity Whithorn, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland UK
Visit Whithorn to find out more about its ancient past - the town was once the bustling centre for pilgrims visiting the St Ninian shrine here.
Whithorn, The History of Scottish Christianity & St Ninian
Moving south of Wigtown towards the coast you arrive at historic Whithorn, associated with the birth and history of Christianity in Scotland. St Ninian, Scotland's first Saint, is thought to have begun his mission here in Whithorn in 397AD to introduce Christianity to Scotland. Not a great deal is known about St Ninian, with most information gleaned from work written many years after his death. Various bits of evidence, particularly from archeological finds in the Whithorn area, point to the town being an early Christian centre, and site for pilgrimage from the 7th century. St Ninian was thought to possess the power of healing, and many made pilgrimages to Whithorn hoping that St Ninian would perform a miracle on them.
Other archeological finds have supported the fact that a huge cathedral stood on a hillside around Whithorn in the 12th century, and obviously the town grew to accommodate the many pilgrims visiting here. After the Reformation however Whithorn began to fail. You can find out more on this fascinating history - and Whithorn's close association with the history of Christianity in Scotland at the Whithorn Story Exhibition.
The Whithorn Story visitor Centre is the place to head on the main high street to find out more about Whithorn's ancient history and archaeological finds and evidence. Artefacts held here include fragments of early imported glass, pottery, rare Northumbrian coins, evidence of Viking cat farming and personal items belonging to pilgrims who visited here. Audio-visual films offer more information on Whithorn's pilgrimage history.
The Whithorn Story, 45-47 George Street, Whithorn DG8 8NS. Tel. 01988 500508. (weblink right for details).
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