Canongate Mercat Cross, Canongate Church

Category

Library Item

Item no

54161

Title

Canongate Mercat Cross, Canongate Church

Artist / maker

Padgett, Clare

Date

2024

Type

Digital image

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

There has been a Canongate Mercat Cross since 1128, but the octagonal shaft is probably the only original part, with the rest being replaced over the years. Until 1851 Canongate was a separate burgh from Edinburgh, and the Mercat Cross signified its right to hold its own markets (although unusually, Canongate craftsmen were also allowed to trade in Edinburgh). The Mercat Cross originally stood in the middle of the street but has been moved several times, being placed next to the Canongate Tolbooth in 1737, and moved to its current location in Canongate Churchyard in 1953.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Monuments > Market Crosses

Places > Edinburgh areas > Canongate

Places > Edinburgh areas > Old Town

Places > Edinburgh Landmarks > Canongate Kirk

Places > Edinburgh Landmarks > Royal High School

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