From the 13th century in particular the community really began to flourish, and in 1492 James IV declared Edinburgh Scotland's capital. Whilst Edinburgh grew in the industrial age, it was surpassed in size by Glasgow, but it still continued to prosper.
Until the late 18th century Edinburgh consisted mainly of what is now known as the Old Town, including the Royal Mile and Grass Market. Construction of the New Town was designed to attract the wealthy back to Edinburgh. The heart of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, and the award-winning modern architecture continuing the contrast between traditional and contemporary. It is easy to see why Edinburgh was once regarded to be the "Athens of the North".
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Holyrood Palace
Home to the royal residence of the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the
seat of Scotland's new Parliament. The Palace is well worth a visit
with access to the royal apartments, the throne room and the great
gallery, housing over eighty 17th century portraits of Scottish
Monarchs.
Edinburgh Castle
Set overlooking the city, the Edinburgh Castle offers fantastic
views of the surrounding area and over to the Firth of Forth. The
assemblage of buildings dating from the 12th to 20th century,
reflect the castle's changing role as fortress, royal palace,
military garrison and state prison. Here, you can view the Scottish
Crown Jewels, and the city's oldest building, the 11th century St
Margaret's Chapel, lies within the castle grounds.
Arthur's Seat
If you're feeling energetic, Arthur's Seat provides spectacular
panoramic views of the city. The extinct volcano erupted around 340
million years ago and having eroded over time, today less than half
the volcano remains. Set in Holyrood Park, to the east of the
castle, Arthur's Seat rises 823 feet (251m) above the city.
Scott Monument
Located at the west end of Princes Street on the south side, Scott
Monument is one of the most important figures in Scottish
literature. The monument was constructed in 1840 as a tribute to
novelist Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832). If you feel like a
challenge, inside the huge structure, 287 steps provide access to
the top of the monument offering stunning views across the Forth of
Fife.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
Home to the British Royal Family for over forty years, the Royal
Yacht Britannia is permanently berthed next to Ocean Terminal in
Leith. Embark the floating palace and discover the royal residence
as you stroll around the decks exploring the lavish apartments, the
charming Royal Deck Tea Room, the cramped crew quarters and the
gleaming Engine Room. Alongside the Royal Yacht Britannia is the
elegant 1930s Racing Yacht Bloodhound, once owned by the Queen.
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Take a journey through time and unveil Scotland's unique history,
displayed visually through portraits of those who influenced and
inspired it. Explore the lives and achievements of many Scots, past
and present from Robbie Burns to Robbie Coltrane.
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