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Mysterious grave

Sweetheart Abbey

New Abbey, Dumfries and Galloway

A widow who carried her husband's heart for 21 years.

When John Balliol died in 1268, his wife Lady Devorgilla had his heart embalmed and placed in an ivory casket, which she carried everywhere. She founded an abbey in his memory, and when she died in 1290 she was buried here with the casket on her breast.

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When
Founded 1273
Where
54.9510, -3.6180
Group
Mysterious graves

Visiting

Historic Environment Scotland, beautiful red sandstone ruins.

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