Edinburgh Castle, standing tall on top of the Castle Rock, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland’s magnificent history. The legendary palace attracts millions of visitors every year. The sight always intrigued historians as it has witnessed countless battles and architectural evolution. The Edinburgh Castle has centuries of royal history, legends, and fascinating stories attached to it. This article brings you 5 such interesting facts about Edinburgh Castle that you may have not known so far. If you are someone who is going to visit the castle for the first time, these facts will help you see it from an all-new perspective.
5 Facts About Edinburgh Castle
1. Home To The Oldest Scottish Building
St Margaret Chapel, which is considered one of the oldest Scottish buildings, is located in Edinburgh Castle. David I constructed this Chapel in the memory of Queen Margaret in 1130. In 1310, Bruce sent Sir Thomas Randolph to destroy the castle. Randolph climbed the castle walls in the middle of the night and captured it. Most of the castle was destroyed after that to prevent the English from using it. However, the Chapel is the only part which remained untouched during the destruction of the castle.
Also read: A Complete Travel Guide To Royal Mile Edinburgh
2. Located On A Dormant Volcano
Edinburgh Castle is located on top of Castle Rock. It was formed because of a volcanic eruption around 340 million years ago. The location of the castle on the plug of the volcano was believed to provide defensive advantages. The Edinburgh Castle has around 27 buildings which are built on top of the dormant volcano. The castle spreads across 2.8 hectares of land and covers an area of approximately 35, 567 square meters.
3. Edinburgh Castle Was Attacked 23 Times
Another popular legend revolving around Edinburgh Castle is that it went under siege 23 times. Various invaders attacked the castle looking for a claim on its strategic position as well as power. The castle is often considered one of the most attacked fortresses in Great Britain. However, some of the famous historians also believe it is one of the most attacked fortresses in the entire Europe. It was rebuilt countless times. Some of the popular include the sieges of 1639, 1641, and 1650 when the Covenanters managed to capture Edinburgh Castle.
4. Crown Jewels Were Rediscovered In Edinburgh Castle
The Honours of Scotland were used during the coronation ceremonies of the Scottish Monarchs. However, they were lost after they were locked away in Edinburgh Castle in 1707. After the Treaty of Union in 1707, the Scottish and the British Kingdoms came together to form Great Britain. Therefore, the Honours of Scotland weren’t needed anymore during the functioning of the Parliament of Great Britain. Hence, it was locked away in a chest at Edinburgh Castle. Sir Walter Scott rediscovered the Crown Jewels in 1818. It is now displayed in the Castle for the visitors to see.
Also read: Edinburgh’s Best Secret Gardens!
5. Edinburgh Castle Held Thousands Of Prisoners
Another interesting fact about Edinburgh Castle is that it was also used to house thousands of prisoners. It also reportedly held 21 pirates of the Caribbean who were at last sentenced to death. Edinburgh Castle is also known for the imprisonment of several Americans during the American War of Independence.
