Edinburgh Calton Hill Self Tour

Start your tour at the New Calton Burial Ground

The New Calton Burial Ground in Edinburgh is a historic cemetery located on the southern slope of Calton Hill, just off Regent Road. Established in 1817, the burial ground was created to accommodate the growing population of Edinburgh and to provide additional burial space as the city's older cemeteries became increasingly overcrowded. The New Calton Burial Ground was designed to replace the Old Calton Burial Ground, which had reached its capacity by the early 19th century.

Walk past the Old Scottish Parliament building

The Old Scottish Parliament building, also known as Parliament House, is a historic building located in Edinburgh's Old Town. It holds great significance as the former home of the Parliament of Scotland from 1639 to 1707.

Key Features and History

Parliament Hall: The main hall within the complex, Parliament Hall, served as the debating chamber for the Scottish Parliament. It's a grand space with a magnificent hammerbeam roof, showcasing impressive 17th-century craftsmanship.

Architectural Style: The building reflects a mix of architectural styles, with its oldest parts dating back to the 17th century. It features elements of Scottish Baronial and Renaissance architecture.

Act of Union: The Parliament of Scotland met here until the Act of Union in 1707, which united Scotland and England to form Great Britain. This act led to the dissolution of the Scottish Parliament for nearly three centuries.

Current Use: Today, the Old Scottish Parliament building houses the Supreme Courts of Scotland. While no longer a parliament, it continues to play a vital role in the Scottish legal system.

Location: Situated in Parliament Square, off the Royal Mile, the building is a key part of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, close to St Giles' Cathedral and other landmarks.

Visiting the Old Scottish Parliament Building

Public Access: The Parliament Hall is open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the space where significant decisions in Scottish history were made.

Legal Proceedings: As it's a working court, visitors may also observe court proceedings, providing a glimpse into the modern-day function of the building.

Historical Significance: The building stands as a powerful reminder of Scotland's rich political past and its journey towards devolution in recent times.

Next, the Robert Burns Monument

The Robert Burns Monument stands just below Calton Hill in the centre of Edinburgh, as a memorial to the great Scottish poet Robert Burns.

Design and Architecture:

Neoclassical Style: The monument, designed by Thomas Hamilton, is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture, inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens.

Circular Structure: It is a circular building with a central drum (cella) surrounded by twelve Corinthian columns.

Domed Roof: The monument is topped with a domed roof, featuring intricate stone carvings and winged lion sculptures.

Material: Constructed from Ravelston sandstone, the monument has a warm, golden hue.

Purpose and History:

Honoring Robert Burns: The monument was built to honor Robert Burns (1759-1796), Scotland's national poet, whose works are celebrated worldwide.

Statue of Burns: Inside the monument, there was originally a life-size statue of Burns by sculptor John Flaxman.

Construction: The foundation stone was laid in 1831, and the monument was completed in 1839.

Restoration: The monument was re-opened in 2009 after extensive restoration work.

Location and Views:

Prominent Position: The monument occupies a prominent position on the southern slopes of Calton Hill, overlooking the city.

Views: It offers stunning views of Edinburgh, including Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park.

Surroundings: The monument is surrounded by well-maintained grounds with laurels, hollies, and Ayrshire roses, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Time to make your way up Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a historic hill in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, renowned for its stunning views of the city and its collection of iconic monuments. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning vistas.

The National Monument of Scotland

History:

The idea for a national monument to commemorate Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars emerged in 1816. The design, modeled after the Parthenon, was chosen to symbolize Scotland's cultural and historical significance. Construction began in 1826, but due to a lack of funds, the project was halted in 1829, leaving the monument unfinished. The monument is often referred to as "Scotland's Folly" due to its unfinished state.

Architecture:

The monument's design is characterized by its Doric columns, which are exact replicas of the Parthenon's columns in size and proportion. The unfinished state of the monument adds to its unique character, creating a sense of historical intrigue and artistic incompletion. The surrounding landscape of Calton Hill enhances the monument's dramatic presence, offering panoramic views of the city. The monument is currently undergoing restoration work to preserve its structure and ensure its longevity.

Significance:

Despite its unfinished state, the National Monument remains a powerful symbol of Scottish identity and a testament to the nation's aspirations. It stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by Scottish soldiers and the cultural and historical significance of Scotland.

The Dugald Stewart Monument

The Dugald Stewart Monument is a memorial to the Scottish philosopher Dugald Stewart. It's located on Calton Hill overlooking the city of Edinburgh and was designed by Scottish architect William Henry Playfair. The monument is situated in a position that provides possible the most iconic view of Edinburgh.

Key features:

Design: Inspired by the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens, it's a circular temple with nine fluted Corinthian columns surrounding an elevated urn.
Significance: Honors Dugald Stewart, a key figure in the Scottish Enlightenment who held the chair of moral philosophy at the University of Edinburgh.
Construction: Commissioned by the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 1830 and completed in 1831.
Architectural Style: The monument is a striking example of Greek Revival architecture. Its circular form, adorned with nine fluted Corinthian columns, is reminiscent of ancient Greek temples. The elevated urn at the center symbolizes the enduring legacy of Stewart's philosophical thought.
Accessibility: The monument is part of Calton Hill, which offers panoramic views of Edinburgh. However, reaching the hill involves climbing steps, so accessibility might be limited for some visitors.

Dugald Stewart (1753-1828) was a prominent Scottish philosopher and influential figure during the Scottish Enlightenment. He was a professor of moral philosophy at the University of Edinburgh, where he taught and inspired many, including figures like Sir Walter Scott and Francis Jeffrey.

Stewart's philosophical work focused on topics such as the philosophy of mind, ethics, and aesthetics. He was known for his clear and engaging writing style, and his lectures were widely attended and admired.

The Horatio Nelson Monument

The Horatio Nelson Monument is a towering column on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland, commemorating Admiral Horatio Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. It's one of the most recognizable landmarks in Edinburgh, offering panoramic views of the city.

Here's a brief overview of the monument: