Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's History
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Getting around - other related articles in this section > Edinburgh Tourist Info > Things to do in Edinburgh > Edinburgh Short Break Tours > Edinburgh Castle > Edinburgh Tattoo > Edinburgh ZooEdinburgh Castle is the second most popular medieval monument in Britain behind the Tower of London, drawing about 1 million visitors every year. Located in the middle of the city, the castle cuts an imposing figure from its stance on Castle Rock, an extinct volcano that has been sheared almost vertical by ancient glaciers.
History of Edinburgh Castle
Over 1,000 years old, the grey stones of Edinburgh Castle are swamped in history. St. Margaret's Chapel dates back to the 1100s when it was constructed by the Normans. The castle is integral to the history of the Scottish English conflict; Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to King James the IV in the former Royal quarters. Edinburgh Castle has been attacked, betrayed and starved throughout the ages but has only fallen in battle twice; and each time it was back to the Scots who were recapturing it from the English.
Visit the Great Hall for its collection of armour and weaponry; the Crown Room houses the Sceptre, Crown and Sword of State of Scotland. The One O'Clock gun fires at 1 PM from the castle walls on every day except Sunday. View the Stone of Destiny, removed to Westminster Abbey in 1296 and returned 700 years later. A working castle, Edinburgh Castle is headquarters to the Scottish Division and houses the National Scottish War Memorial.
Tours and tickets:
Edinburgh Castle is open year round except on the 25th and 26th of December. Tickets are available through the castle's ticket office; adults cost £9.80 each and children £3.50 each. Historical tours are available for an additional fee. Call 0131 225 9846 or visit www.historic-scotland.gov.uk for more information.
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