Blackfriars Chapel

What survives

The Dominicans, or Black Friars, had a house here from at least the 1460s, probably encouraged by the needs of the young university. The chapel was added in the 1520s, about a decade after the friars' main church. In June 1559 Protestant reformers drove the friars out and the buildings were destroyed; the chapel apse is all that is left. Look up for the ribbed vault with its carved central boss, and at the pointed arch and tracery windows that still hold their shape.

How to fit it into a walk

The ruin sits at the corner of Bell Street and South Street, in front of Madras College, so you will pass it on any stroll between the West Port and the cathedral end of town. Historic Environment Scotland lists it as open all year and it is viewed from outside, which makes it an easy stop early in the morning or on a grey afternoon when you only have a few minutes.

Nearby

South Street is the town's oldest main thoroughfare, and Blackfriars is a good starting point for following it east towards Holy Trinity Church and the cathedral ruins. Aikman's on Bell Street is a few steps away for a pint or lunch, and Jarvie's is close by for coffee.

Highlights

• Apse of a 1520s Dominican friary chapel
• Ribbed vault with a carved central boss
• Destroyed by reformers in June 1559
• Viewed from the street on South Street

Good to know

• Listed by Historic Environment Scotland as open all year.
• Viewed from outside: there is no building to go into.
• Stands in front of Madras College at the corner of Bell Street.

Frequently asked questions