The village of Temple in Midlothian is where the Knights Templar held their primary and principal Preceptory in Scotland. There are some trees that might follow along lines of previous structures. There is a patch of rough ground that may one day be archaeologically be further investigated generating more detail about this site. For now there is a ruined kirk managed by TEMPLE OLD KIRK FRIENDS, please see the link below. The kirk is well worth a view, but it is not old enough to be a Templar building, there could be a reuse of stone still holding information held right now within the present structure. The stone archway pictured here is quickly photographed as I chatted of knights, of bold deeds, of traditions of yore and of the way forward we can create to reach out and to become legendary for peace making and social caring as we all make one world a safer, better and happier a place to be.
The pictures start with the arch that stands even though it is heavily worn by time. We progress away from the archway and look briefly at the significant trees standing with the stones over centuries. There are pictures that show a tree that is slowly breaking back down into the ground. There are pictures of the nearby old school that stands close to the arch. Any structure close by might have opened up and then sealed in some historic evidence. The evidence focussed upon today can be microscopic soil structure and also hue. The ground holds secrets here and one day further archaeological excavation might open up new details. Til then we have the archway behind the old school and our imagination.
From this spot you can look out to the ports of Edinburgh, to the Firth of Forth and across to Fife. This place stands secure once within it’s own sovereignty. The inspirational stories of old seem to have a fine place here to reside.
© PHH Sykes 2023
TEMPLE OLD KIRK FRIENDS
https://churchmonumentssociety.org/2021/12/14/temple-old-kirk-friends
