The city of Edinburgh carries deep historical value as seen through its striking church buildings. Churches in this city serve both as houses of worship and historical markers. People who care about architecture will enjoy historical sites and like peaceful spots should visit these church locations. This list presents Edinburgh’s top five churches as picks.
1. St. Giles’ Cathedral
St. Giles’ Cathedral stands as the top church in Edinburgh earning significant tourist attention throughout Scotland. Known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh it takes its leading position on the Royal Mile street.
Unique Crown Spire
The church stands out because it has a unique crown-shaped tower that very few buildings feature. The cathedral stands tall above other buildings in Edinburgh because eight flying buttresses hold up its spire.
Rich History and Interior
The original St. Giles church construction in 854 AD led to its current building which began in 1485. Inside, visitors admire its huge stained-glass windows, blue-painted ceiling, and the Thistle Chapel, famous for its detailed wood carvings.
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2. Church of St. John the Evangelist
The Church of St. John the Evangelist features Edinburgh’s finest church style among its places of worship. At 25 years old William Burn designed this church in 1815. The site stands close to the gardens of Princes Street.
Stunning Stained-Glass Windows
Colored glasses in the church windows display Bible scenes. The sunshine that passes through the church creates bright color displays throughout its interior space and produces a tranquil peaceful atmosphere.
Fan-Vaulted Ceiling
The church’s fan-vaulted ceiling stands out as its premier element because it draws from Westminster Abbey’s design. The painted deep blue ceiling makes the church space beautiful and soothing to experience.
3. St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral
St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral stands as the highest church building in Edinburgh. People across Edinburgh can see its three towers because this church took 43 years to complete between 1874 and 1917.
The Tallest Spire in Edinburgh
The cathedral main spire measures 295 feet in height and represents the tallest structure in Edinburgh. The church has two spires named after Barbara and Mary who financed its construction as sisters.
Beautiful Stained-Glass Windows
Within its walls the church displays spectacular stained-glass windows that include the famous Paolozzi Window which creates colorful lighting effects. The cathedral created this cross to remember soldiers in the Scotland National War Memorial.
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4. St. Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral
St. Mary’s Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a Roman Catholic cathedral built in 1814. Years passed and the building developed into one of Edinburgh’s biggest houses of worship.
Grand Mural Above the Sanctuary
Above the sanctuary sits a notable painting that depicts Virgin Mary receiving her crown in heaven. People in Scotland recognize this artwork as a leading religious artwork of Scotland.
Traditional Wooden Ceiling and Statues
Wood paneling on the cathedral ceiling mixes with its majestic features in excellent taste. Statues of holy figures spread throughout the building create a sanctified peaceful feeling. A set of the Stations of the Cross was created in Germany to honor individuals who lost their lives in World War I.
5. St. Cuthbert’s Parish Church
St. Cuthbert’s is one of the oldest church sites in Edinburgh. People assume St. Cuthbert as a Celtic missionary spread the word of God here during the 7th century. A new building opened its doors for worship in 1894.
Ancient Graveyard
The church grounds contain ancient gravestones placed there since the year 1600. One can explore its significance by looking at the resting places of Scottish science and literature legends.
Tiffany Stained-Glass Window and Marble Pulpit
The church houses a one-of-a-kind Tiffany stained-glass window within its walls. Beautiful carvings decorate the marble pulpit at the church while the Last Supper artwork by the altar creates a special atmosphere.
