Thistle Chapel, St Giles, Edinburgh

Category

Library Item

Item no

3129

Title

Thistle Chapel, St Giles, Edinburgh

Description

The rear of the Thisle Chapel in St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh. The building has stained glass windows and carved stonework. The carvings include heraldic motifs and the statue of a man. Steps lead to the doorway.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1923

Size

8.5 x 13.5 cm

Type

Photograph; Postcard

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

This image has been chosen for the Edinburgh - Past and Present Exhibition by Jamie Fraser, Managing Director of Hamilton & Inches - "The architecture of the Thistle Chapel is both challenging and uplifting. There is a dramatic juxtaposition of light and strength in the flying buttresses and of glory and humility in the decorative stonework. Edinburgh' position as the Country's capital is, in part, reflected in the stature of St Giles' cathedral and the continuity of our history and the importance of the monarchy to Scots is, in part, reflected in the Thistle order of knighthood. This image brings those qualities of the building to life. Hamilton & Inches named one of their silver collections after the chapel's architect Lorimer, as its design heritage is that of Scottish church plate similar to pieces in use in St Giles' cathedral today" Jamie Fraser.

The Thistle Chapel was designed by Sir Robert Stodart Lorimer, and added to the south-east corner of St Giles Kirk in 1909-11. It is a private chapel for the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, hosting its ceremonies and services. The Order of the Thistle is the highest honour in Scotland. Opinions vary as to its origins, but the order certainly dates from at least the 15th century, and possibly as far back as the 9th. The honour fell out of use around the time of the Reformation and was revived first by James II and VII in 1687, and then again by Queen Anne in 1703. The order is bestowed on Scottish men and women who have held public office or made a significant contribution to the nation.

St Giles Kirk, often called St Giles Cathedral, is situated on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. A church has stood on the site since around 1120-1140, but little remains of the 12th century structure. St Giles played an important part in the Scottish Protestant Reformation with John Knox serving as its minister from 1560 until his death in 1572. The building has experienced significant additions, alterations and restorations during its history. The Thistle Chapel, a private chapel for the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, was added between 1909-11.

Copyright Judges Postcards Ltd, Hastings

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Related subjects

Places > Edinburgh areas > Old Town

Places > Edinburgh areas > Royal Mile

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Religion > Religious facilities > Cathedrals

Religion > Religious facilities > Protestant churches