Overview:

: The Edinburgh Castle is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in Scotland. Located high atop an extinct volcano, it serves as a symbol of the city of Edinburgh and its rich history. Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was a royal residence and the home of Scotland’s kings and queens. Today it is a major tourist attraction, with visitors from around the world coming to admire the castle's impressive architecture, and to learn about its fascinating history. Visitors can explore the castle's grounds and great hall, see its grand throne room, and marvel at the stunning views from the ramparts. It is also home to a host of military memorabilia, royal apartments, and the Stone of Destiny, an important symbolic element of Scottish identity. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in United-Kingdom
Prominent Features:

1. Historic Site – The Edinburgh Castle has an abundance of history, with references of the castle being built as far back as the 12th century. It has been a royal residence since the 16th century, and countless battles and sieges have taken place within its walls. 2. World Heritage Site – Edinburgh Castle is part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage site, which was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1995. 3. Iconic Landmark – Sitting atop the highest point in the city, the Edinburgh Castle has become an iconic landmark of Edinburgh and Scotland. 4. Military Buildings –The castle is home to many military buildings and monuments, such as the iconic One O’Clock Gun, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the National War Museum of Scotland. 5. Royal Palace – The Edinburgh Castle has acted as a royal residence since the 16th century, and is one of the most historic and important royal palaces in the United Kingdom. This national monument of United-Kingdom portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The history of Edinburgh Castle begins in the 12th century, when it was established as a royal residence by David I of Scotland. The formidable fortress was used as a royal home and later, a military barracks and prison. Despite many sieges over the centuries, Edinburgh Castle withstood its enemies and still stands as an icon of Scotland's history and culture. The first castle at Edinburgh was built by King Malcolm III in the 1070s. It included a chapel, curtain walls and towers, and a great hall. During the 12th and 13th centuries, it was further expanded and fortified by William the Lion and other Scottish kings. By the late 14th century, the castle was in need of repair and underwent an extensive renovation that included the construction of the famous St. Margaret's Chapel. In 1314, the castle was captured by the English during the Wars of Independence and remained in English control until James III of Scotland regained it in 1460. In 1572, Mary, Queen of Scots, gave birth to her son James VI at the castle and in 1590, James converted the chapel into Scotland's first Protestant church. During the 17th century, the castle was frequently besieged by the English during the wars of the three kingdoms, leading to much of the fortress sustaining damage. The 18th century brought peace to the region and Edinburgh Castle was finally restored between 1772 and 1812. During the Second World War, the castle endured yet another siege from German bombers, although it sustained minimal damage. In the 21st century, Edinburgh Castle continues to receive millions of visitors every year. It remains a symbol of Scotland’s history and culture and is often referred to as the ‘heart of Scotland.’ You must visit one of these historical places in United-Kingdom on your United-Kingdom tour

Interesting facts:

1. The castle was built in the 12th century and sits atop an extinct volcano. 2. The most significant surviving example of early military architecture in Britain, the Edinburgh Castle held off numerous sieges in its 900-year history. 3. Legend has it that the Stone of Destiny, a coronation stone used in the crowning of Scottish kings, was among the treasures stored in the castle in 1296 and removed to Westminster Abbey by Edward I of England in 1296. 4. In 1457, James II of Scotland named the castle a royal palace. 5. The castle was used for military use throughout the 18th and 19th centuries before being given to the city of Edinburgh in 1961. 6. It is now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Scotland. 7. It is also home to Scotland’s Crown Jewels since 1996. 8. A 15-minute single cannon salute is fired from the castle every day at 1pm. 9. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is held every year at the castle. 10. The castle is the most besieged place in Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. Visit one of the famous monuments of United-Kingdom with your friends and family.