Dunkeld History
Dunkeld, the fort of the Celts played a vital role in the early history of Scotland, both as a Royal and Religious centre. It was the original seat of the chief bishop of the mysterious kingdom of the Picts; Scotland's first king, Kenneth MacAlpin, built a stone church here early in the 9th century to house the relics of St Columba; and under King David I it was the centre of Christianity in all of Scotland. The present building was constructed between 1315 and 1501. The cathedral was plundered by the Vikings, and vandalized by the stern followers of the Reformation. Dunkeld is a picturesque and delightful town which contains a wealth of interest, and is an ideal base for walking, fishing, golfing, and other sporting activities.