Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a unique skyline dominated by Edinburgh Castle. The 'Old Town' preserves its medieval character whilst the Georgian 'New Town' built in the 1700's represents a period when Edinburgh was growing rapidly and celebrated as a centre of Scientific, philosophical and economic thought.
Many of the City's landmarks commemorate historic events or people who have contributed to the cultural heritage of Scotland and beyond. Monuments celebrate literary figures such as Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. The Nelson monument perched on Calton Hill commemorates the victory and death of Admiral Lord Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar
The medieval jumble of buildings of the Royal Mile has remained unchanged over the centuries and has witnessed many historical events.
Buildings associated with political and religious life of the City contribute to the distinctive cityscape. St Giles Cathedral founded in 1120 stands on the Royal Mile in the 'Old Town'. One of the most recent landmarks for the City is the Scottish parliament building at Holyrood.
The image library for the collections of Edinburgh Libraries and Museums and Galleries