Canongate Churchyard with New Position of Mercat Cross

Category

Library Item

Item no

8449

Title

Canongate Churchyard with new position of Mercat cross

Artist / maker

Inglis, Francis Caird

Date

1953

Size

22.6 x 28.8 cm

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.

Exhibitions with this item

Other views of this item

Related images

Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Railings

Architecture > Monuments > Gravestones

Architecture > Monuments > Market Crosses

Furnishings > Furniture > Benches

Homes > Residential buildings > Tenements

Places > Edinburgh areas > Canongate

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Religion > Religious facilities > Churchyards

Read how our collections have inspired people taking part in events, visits and community groups. Use the slider or navigation arrows to see more responses.