Greyfriars Kirk (officially Greyfriars Tolbooth & Highland Kirk) was the first church in Edinburgh after the Reformation. Built on the site of the old Franciscan convent, it was started in 1562, though not consecrated until Christmas Day 1620.
Just 18 years later it achieved historical importance as the National Covenant was signed at its pulpit, while between 1650 and 1653 it was used as a barracks against Cromwell's invasion. In 1845 "Old Greyfriars" was gutted by fire, with restoration taking many years.
But the church is best loved because of the heartwarming story of the loyal dog, Greyfriars Bobby, commemorated by a statue in the graveyard. The Skye Terrier kept vigil over his master's grave, John Gray, who died on 15 February 1858, for 14 years until his own death.