Whithorn, known as Scotland's Cradle of Christianity, is unique as a centre of worship, administration and pilgrimage dating back to the 5th century. This publication examines the 'lost excavation' at Whithorn Priory - the only modern excavation campaign to focus on the high status burials near the high altar of a major Scottish medieval church.

A pioneering partnership between National Museums Scotland and The Glenmorangie Comany has supported a major programme of research into the archaeology of Scotland during the Early Medieval Period. Out of that has come this milestone book in Scottish archaeological publishing.