Explore Moray’s turbulent past

Today Moray is a lush, peaceful region but its past is coloured by events and characters both real and fictional that provide tempting experiences for the modern traveller.

Dating from the 1,200s Elgin Cathedral is now one of the most impressive and well preserved ruins in the country. It suffered - along with most of Elgin - at the hands of the Wolf of Badenoch; when in 1390 he burned it down in revenge for his excommunication by the Bishop of Elgin.

Living peacefully by comparison the Brodie family built Brodie Castle in the 16th century after Malcolm IV apparently gifted them the land upon which it now sits. The tower house contains fine French furniture and a major collection of paintings. Set in quiet parkland, with sheltered woodland walks, visitors can also stroll by the pond and watch the estate's varied wildlife.

Across Moray evidence of Pictish communities is noticeable with impressive relics carefully maintained for the present day. A beautiful example is Sueno's Stone on the outskirts of Forres. Carved from red sandstone, it stands over 6m high with elaborately interlaced carving. Near Ballindalloch the Lagmore Clava Cairn is an ancient burial mound where four stones of the external circle still stand as well as a lintelled passage leading towards traces of the chamber.

So with such rich and well preserved history in such a accessible place; Moray is the ideal location to look out for reminders of a fascinating past.

Find more about Moray's wildlife at www.visithighlands.com/moray

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Exciting Events and Festivals

Whenever you visit, Moray is buzzing with events this summer not least the opportunity to explore your roots in this year of Homecoming 2009.

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