Amazing architecture prepares to welcome multitude of visitors

Fife buildings hailed a fascinating timeline of local history

From castles to churches, battles to bunkers, Fife is profiling some of its most remarkable architecture to visitors to celebrate the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.

The weekend sees the start of a series of events around the kingdom to encourage residents and visitors to take a fresh look at some of the most interesting architecture around them.

The spotlight is on Kirkcaldy and midFife which is home to buildings famous for their history and design.

The Kirkcaldy and Mid-Fife Local Tourist Association chairman, Drew Shedden, explained why the area is so rich in architectural heritage.

“Kirkcaldy and mid-Fife is home to some of the oldest and the newest architecture in Fife, which symbolise innovations of all kinds,” he said.

“This ranged from Burntisland Parish Church where the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland proposed the new translation of the Bible, known as the King James version, to the Maggie’s centre at the Victoria hospital which offers comfort to patients and families inside an avant garde building resembling an enormous piece of black coal, a tribute to the area’s mining past.

“Post-war influence is seen in the Town House in Kirkcaldy and St Paul’s RC Church in Glenrothes, while the medieval Balgonie Castle, host to many TV and film productions, stands as one of Scotland’s oldest castles.”

Information about each building can be found at www.welcometofife.com/lovefifearchitecture.

Alistair Bruce, chairman of the Fife Tourism Partnership said: “The architecture in Fife is a fascinating timeline of our local history stretching from the 9th Century to present day.

“This year, marking innovation, architecture and design, is a timely reminder for residents as well as visitors that some very special people, events and talents are embedded in Fife’s history.

“Many visitors to Scotland come for this historical heritage and Fife has plenty to offer them as part of our other many tourism assets.”

The Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design is run by VisitScotland to celebrate awe-inspiring innovation, breathtaking architecture and brave, bold designs through new and exciting experiences and events.

This year, marking innovation, architecture and design, is a timely reminder for residents as well as visitors that some very special people, events and talents are embedded in Fife’s history. DREW SHEDDEN

Picture: Steve MacDougall. Brian Gorton, treasurer of Kirkcaldy and Mid Fife Tourist Association, outside Burntisland Parish Church.