The ruins of Melrose Abbey are amongst the most famous in Scotland. Much of what survives dates from the 15th century. Founded in 1136, it was the first of a number of Cistercian monasteries built in the border region by King David I. Its life as a monastery lasted 450 years,despite being significantly damaged on a number of occasions by attacks from England. 

Major repairs were required after raids by Edward I in 1300 and 1307, Edward II in 1322, and Richard II in 1385. It was also damaged during the Rough Wooing in the 1540s. It is reputed to be the final resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart.