Edinburgh Castle become one of top tourist attractions in Scotland. This palace is one of the historical buildings that are always crowded with tourists every year. Edinburg Castle is not only beautiful, but its location on top of the mountain gives a very impressive sight.
History of Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is located on Castle Rock in the city of Edinburgh, Scotland. Castle Rock formed after a volcano erupted over 340 million years ago. The first castle that existed on the rock was known as “The Castle of the Maidens”. According to legend, the castle had been a shrine to the “Nine Maidens”, one of whom was Morgan le Fay.
Castle Rock had been a military base and royal residence for centuries. However, the edifice that is known as Edinburgh Castle was built during the 12th century by David I, son of Saint Margaret of Scotland.
The tensions between the English and Scottish monarchies nearly always centred on Edinburgh Castle. He who held the castle held rule over the city of Edinburgh and, therefore, over all of Scotland. Consequently, the castle was almost constantly under siege.
The first major battle the castle witnessed was during the late 13th century when Edward I of England attempted to seize the then vacant Scottish throne. From 1296 to 1341, the castle bounced from English to Scottish hands several times during the First and Second Wars of Scottish Independence.
After the Wars of Independence, the castle was in great need of repairs. Most of the construction was overseen by David II. In his honour, David’s Tower was erected.
From the18th century to the early 19th, Edinburgh Castle was used to hold military prisoners from England’s many wars. The castle became a national monument in 1814 after a mass prison break proved that the castle could not hold prisoners. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the castle was slowly restored. Military ceremonies began to be held there and, in 1927, part of the castle was turned into the Scottish National War Memorial.
Edinburgh Castle now is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland. The more than one million people who visit the castle each year witness military ceremonies, historical re-enactments, and can visit sites such as St. Margaret’s Chapel and the Great Hall of King James IV.
Things to do in Edinburgh Castle
The views from all round the castle across Edinburgh are spectacular. A rich mix of architectural styles reflects the castle's complex history and role as both stronghold and seat of Kings. The tiny St Margaret's Chapel, Edinburgh's oldest building, dates from the 1100s. Crown Square, the principal courtyard, was developed in the 15th century, the Great Hall with its impressive hammerbeam roof was built by James IV in 1511. The Half Moon Battery was created in the late 16th century; and the Scottish National War memorial was added after the First World War.
Castle stewards provide guided tours and there is also an audio tour in six languages. As well as gift and book shops, the Crown Jewel shop offers exclusive, specially designed jewellery for sale. Visitors can take a break in the castle café. A courtesy vehicle for visitors with a disability (sponsored by the Bank of Scotland) is available from the esplanade.
Edinburgh Castle is one of the finest castles in the world, and is truly one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Sitting at the highest point in the old town Edinburgh castle has lorded it over the city for hundreds of years. Walk up the Royal Mile (High St) to soak up the feeling of history as you approach the castle.
Edinburgh Castle is one of the finest castles in the world, and is truly one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Sitting at the highest point in the old town Edinburgh castle has lorded it over the city for hundreds of years. Walk up the Royal Mile (High St) to soak up the feeling of history as you approach the castle.
Try to be there for the firing of the one o clock gun. The castle has lots of different buildings and ramparts within them- lots of different places to explore. The views over the city in all directions are amazing, and there are various cannons and guns to see- just let them have a wander on their own if they don't want to join in to a tour.
Hope this few information can useful for your vacation plan especially if you want visit Edinburgh.
