Refurbished Portobello Baths, Interior

Category

Library Item

Item no

4310

Title

Refurbished Portobello Baths, interior

Description

The reflection of an overhead glass cupola is captured in the water's surface of Portobello Baths, Edinburgh. The image is centred over a set of steps leading down into the pool. The steps have a chrome handrail and are surrounded by a pattern of blue and white tiles.

Artist / maker

MacLean, Kevin

Date

1998

Size

20.2 x 25.2 cm

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

Portobello developed around a cottage built in the mid 18th century. The sailor who occupied the cottage had fought at Puerto Bello, a port in Panama captured by the British in 1739, and named his home after the battle. With its long beach the town became an increasingly popular leisure destination. It boasted a pier between 1871-1917 and an outdoor swimming pool between 1936-1979. Holidaymakers and day-trippers could also visit the Marine Gardens or the fun fair, both now demolished. The town has been part of Edinburgh since 1896.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Stairways

Places > Edinburgh areas > Portobello

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Sport and leisure > Sports and recreation facilities > Swimming pools

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