Library Item

4111

Scott Monument under construction

The intricate carving of the Scott Monument emerges from under a network of wooden scaffolding. The original housing of Princes Street can be seen in the background. The roof of a house can be seen down the slope in front of the monument.

1844

37.7 x 28.3 cm

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

This image has been chosen for the Edinburgh - Past and Present Exhibition by Sandy Crombie, Group Chief Executive, Standard Life - "Edinburgh was the first City in the world to achieve the City of Literature designation from UNESCO. I think this image of the monument constructed between 1840 and 1844 to recognise the huge contribution to literature by Edinburgh inhabitant Sir Walter Scott speaks volumes for Edinburgh's literary heritage" Sandy Crombie.

The Scott Monument was built as a memorial to the writer Sir Walter Scott. Construction took place between 1840-1846 on the George Kemp design. Two hundred and eighty seven steps take you to the top, offering views along Edinburgh's Princes Street.