Edinburgh’s Rich and Royal History Draws Incredible Number of Visitors

Edinburgh’s Rich and Royal History Draws Incredible Number of Visitors!

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Edinburgh’s Royal History Draws Incredible Number of Visitors, and I am among them! Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is steeped in fascinating history that dates back centuries. From its iconic landmarks to its vibrant culture, Edinburgh offers a glimpse into the rich and royal tapestry of Scottish history. I have long wanted to visit the city of Mary, Queen of Scots, and Robert the Bruce. And William Wallace, but don’t mention the movie to a Scot, the history is so incorrect they dislike it intensely. And not to forget Adam Smith, David Hume, and many great intellectuals, poets and writers.

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Edinburgh is a city of contrasts, where medieval architecture stands alongside modern skyscrapers. One of the most famous landmarks in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock and offering stunning views of the city below. It is easy to see why the castle was built on the rock, it seems it would have been impregnable, but in 1314 Robert the Bruce sent his nephew to take it from the English, and after scaling the rock, it once again was Scottish. Edinburgh’s Royal History includes The Royal Mile, a historic street that runs from the castle to the Palace of Holyrood House, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and museums that showcase the city’s heritage. St Giles Cathedral, built by King David 1 in the 1100s, is also on The Royal Mile. St Giles is the patron saint of Scotland. You will recognize many streets and places from Harry Potter, including Diagon Ally.

Scotland has a rich and complex history, with influences from the Gaelic Celt, Roman, and Viking cultures shaping the nation. The Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, where the Scots under Robert the Bruce defeated the English army, is a pivotal moment in Scottish history that solidified Scotland’s independence. The Scottish Enlightenment of the 18th century saw Edinburgh become a center of intellectual and cultural innovation, with figures like David Hume and Adam Smith shaping modern philosophy and economics. I have always loved the story of Adam Smith wandering about the streets in his nightclothes, thinking. Talk about ADHD! But, thanks to Adam Smith, we have The Wealth of Nations,

“‘It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker, that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest. We address ourselves, not to their humanity but to their self-love, and never talk to them of our own necessities but of their advantages. ‘” Adam Smith.

As all who read me know, I adore touring cities in the Hop on, Hop off bus, and going on small bus tours. I rode the bus all day as my Achilles Tendonitis was at an all time high, and loved the sites and sounds of Edinburgh. I do the Hop on, Hop off in every city I go to, it helps orient me, and I can get on and off as I choose. In my imagination I could see Mary, Queen of Scots, and I visited Kirk o’ Field, where her second husband, Lord Henry Darnley, was murdered. Did Mary have a hand in it? I confess I hope not, but it is certainly possible, there are the Casket Letters. Forgeries or true? I don’t know, but I do know that Darnley was an awful human being and a worse husband. Terrible choice, and these two gave us the Stuart dynasty of England, their son was James 1 of England. I do have to lodge a complaint with King Charles, the palace was used by the royals during my stay, so I did not get to tour it. I was quite upset so I believe I should receive a royal apology. Holyroodhouse Palace was on the very top of my list to visit…to soak up the ambiance of Mary Queen of Scots and the unbelievably dramatic events that took place there. Well, I will just go back!

The Gates of Holyrood, Court, King’s Gallery, Arms of Scotland, the Forecourt Fountain, and Arthur’s Seat, a popular walk.

One of my favorite tours in Edinburgh was the Real Mary King’s Close. Beneath the city’s chambers lived a community of 600 persons, during the time period of 1500-1700s. These people were poor, and lived in a “close”, a narrow, winding alleyway through Edinburgh’s Royal Mile closed in. It was termed a close because everything was so close, as you can see in the photos. There is no opening at the top though. There were butchers and other shops, it was a community. In 1645 the bubonic plague arrived in Mary King’s Close, and the Plague Doctors were sent to treat the poor. Their uniforms were actually pretty cunning, they were heavily garbed and gloved, and most importantly, masked. It was quite the tour, and difficult because of my Achilles, but it was awesome. Before the plague, the Queen of Scots was held captive in one of its small chambers while the city howled outside for her death. Her story is closely twined with Elizabeth I who was her second cousin. I recommend Mary, Queen of Scotland and the Isles: A Novel, by Margaret George.

Here I’m with the Plague Doctor at the Real Mary King’s Close

Edinburgh’s rich history and unique culture make it a must-visit destination for history buffs (me!) and travelers alike. From DNA I have learned that my husband is 46% Scottish and his lineage comes all the way through the Stuart Kings, and Robert the Bruce. I am 25% Scottish of 60% British, but I come from the Isle of Skye’s MacDonald Clan and MacKenzie Clan. I absolutely loved Scotland and felt right at home. You can bet I am going back! I am kind of obsessed, actually. It’s going to be a bonny Scots Christmas at Tam’s this year! From its ancient castles to its bustling streets, Edinburgh offers a captivating journey through the annals of Scottish history.

Have a listen to Loch Lomond by Scotland’s band Runrig. Rest in Peace, Bruce Guthro.