No
visit to Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh would be complete without a trip
to Edinburgh Castle. The historic fortress that dominates the city skyline is
an integral feature of Edinburgh, and some say a symbol of Scotland.
Whether
you are spending several weeks enjoying Scotland or making the most of cheap rooms in Edinburgh for a weekend break, Edinburgh Castle is a must-see.
The Castle
The
castle complex has been home to many Scottish monarchs over the years and today holds Scotland's Crown Jewels. It is large and, following several restorations, it is possible to
walk around and really imagine it as a functioning fortress. With outer
defences, a portcullis gate, towers, canons and royal palace buildings,
Edinburgh Castle fulfils even the most extravagant castle fantasies. It also
houses military buildings, the National War Museum of Scotland, a chapel, an
education centre, cafes and shops. There is even a dog cemetery.
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| Edinburgh Castle gate, Scotland |
The Guns
If
you want your castle and military stories brought to life, make sure you are at
the castle for the traditional One O’Clock Gun. Firing the gun at 1pm each day
was a time signal. It was originally fired to signal the time to ships in
nearby harbours but is now continued as a nod to tradition.
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| Checking out a canon at Edinburgh Castle, Scotland |
The View
From
its vantage point, high above the city on a volcanic outcrop with near vertical
cliffs, Edinburgh Castle has a naturally defended position. On a clear day it
also offers incredible views across Edinburgh.
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| Clock tower within Edinburgh Castle, Scotland |
There
is such a wealth of historical information available in the castle that it
would be possible to visit several times and learn something new each trip.
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| Lion statue, Edinburgh Castle, Scotland |
I
love considering what life was like in previous periods of history and a visit
to Edinburgh Castle certainly fuels the imagination. Have you been?
Photo credit: Alex Morrice
