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Culture of Edinburgh. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces
Beautiful Royal Castle is one of the main symbols of the city. According to one version, the first building on the site of the modern palace was built back in 1070. The last owner of a beautiful castle was King James. Today everyone can visit the palace which was built in the beginning of the 17th century. Edinburg Castle is a no less attractive historical monument. It was almost completely destroyed in 1640. The renovation works lasted for almost two centuries. Now everyone can make a walk through the beautiful halls of the fortress and observe the luxurious decoration of its halls.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions remains the most popular family destination in Edinburgh. It is impossible to find a more fascinating and unusual museum in the city. The opening of … 
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Porridge remains one of the most favorite dishes of the locals. People here can eat this meal not only for breakfast, but also during the day. Herring with boiled potatoes is the second in … Open
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It is definitely worth visiting the Dean Cemetery. It not only has an incredibly quiet atmosphere but what is more interesting, some famous people of Scotland are buried here. Nearby is situated Dean Village, a place also famous for its pacifying and serene atmosphere. These are excellent places for conducting leisurely hiking, away from the bustling city. There is as well as the Dean Private Gardens, on whose territory is situated many interesting sights, among them; beautiful gazebos, bridges, ponds. Another cemetery – Greyfriars Kirkyard – has the world-famous monument to the dog Bobby as its main feature. It is a kind of monument of devotion and friendship.
Residents of Edinburgh are quite friendly and sociable, even though they may seem to be a bit closed at first glance. Finding an explanation to this fact is not really complicated - the fact … Open
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Another historically significant place is Craigmillar Castle, a well-preserved historical monument. The majestic main tower (which, by the way, you can climb and look at the wonderful expanses of Scotland), massive walls, a well-groomed courtyard, all fills the heart with warmth and tranquility. Among other castles which you must visit in Arthur Conan Doyle’s hometown are the castles of Blackness, Lauriston, and Dundas. Seeing these castles, it becomes clear why the famous native of the city was so fond of spiritualism – each castle has its own unique atmosphere, but one thing connects them – a special mystical atmosphere.
Edinburgh is not distinguished by large choice of entertainments, and noisy nightlife. This city will be more pleasant to those tourists, who like relaxing in tranquil surroundings. … Open
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Edinburgh and surroundings
Plan your own excursion through Edinburgh: churches, museums and castles
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh
Location on the map: 
Facts:
» The Edinburgh Castle is the ancient fortress in the center of Edinburgh, which is the most important and attractive tourist attraction of the Scottish capital. Facts:» The castle was built on the rock that was once an active volcano.
» The castle has been built in the early Middle Ages and was rebuilt several times. In the end, it was adapted for the defense of land from artillery.
» Three sides of the fortress are protected by steep cliffs, so access to the castle is available just across the road on the east side. By the way, you can pass only through the esplanade, a long empty inclined portion of the fortress, where the annual parade of the Royal Edinburgh Military Orchestras is held.
» The oldest building in Edinburgh, the St. Margaret Chapel, stands on the grounds of the castle. The crown of Scotland is also kept at the Edinburgh Castle.
» The Edinburgh Castle is one of several ancient castles in the UK, which still has its own military garrison, although it's used mainly for ceremonial and administrative purposes.
Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh
Location on the map: Facts:
» The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Facts:» In the absence of the royal family the palace is open to public access.
» You can enter the palace through the grand staircase of the 17th century constructed in Baroque style. Ornate molding on the ceiling depicts angels keeping Scottish regalia.
» The grand staircase opens to the richly decorated dining room and the Royal Throne Hall, where George IV was crowned.
» The most impressive are the private rooms of Mary Queen of Scots, which contain a variety of antiques, valuable paintings and tapestries.
» The gallery of the castle houses portraits of 110 Scottish monarchs. The gallery also has exhibits of works of art from the private collection of the royal family.
St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh
Location on the map: Facts:
» The St Giles Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Edinburgh. Facts:» The amazing cathedral attracts with its medieval architecture and the fact that it keeps many relics.
» The temple was consecrated in honor of the saint who is the patron of cripples and lepers, and is also considered the patron saint of Edinburgh.
» Many well-known and honored citizens of Scotland were buried in the cathedral.
» For nearly three centuries after the Reformation in 1560, the cathedral has being used not for religious purposes. At various times, there were a fire station, a police station, a store of coal and a school. There was even a prison inside the cathedral.
Scott Monument, Edinburgh
Location on the map: Facts:
» The Scott Monument is the monument to the Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott built in neo-Gothic style. Facts:» The total height of the monument is 61.11 meters.
» The Scott Monument has several viewing platforms. The highest observation deck can be accessed after overcoming 287 steps.
» The monument is decorated with 64 sculptures, and most of them are heroes of Sir Walter Scott.
» The statue of the writer, resting from writing the new novel with a pen in his hand and a dog at his feet, can be seen in the center of the monument.
St. Mary Cathedral, Edinburgh
Location on the map: Facts:
» The St. Mary Cathedral is the cathedral unique in its grandeur and beauty built on the project by George Gilbert. Facts:» The St. Mary Cathedral is one of the most prominent places of worship in Edinburgh. There is no entrance fee in this temple.
» Interior decoration of the cathedral is striking with its neo-Gothic architecture, stunning stained glass windows and wonderful paintings.
» The St. Mary Cathedral is well seen from afar thanks to three high spires towering over it.
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What to visit during two-day excursion in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle
Where: Castle Hill, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 225 9846;
Where: Castle Hill, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 225 9846;
Camera Obscura
Where: Castle Hill/The Royal Mile, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 226 3709;
Where: Castle Hill/The Royal Mile, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 226 3709;
The Scotch Whisky Heritage Center
Where: 354 Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 220 0441;
Where: 354 Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 220 0441;
Historic Walks/Ghost Walks
Where: Mercat Cross, High street, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 225 5445;
Where: Mercat Cross, High street, Edinburgh; Telephone: + 44 (0)131 225 5445;
Reference information
Map of all palaces
Public palaces near Edinburgh
♥ Palace 'Seton Palace' , 16.6 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Palace 'Falkland Palace' , 33.8 km from the center. On the map
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Map of all art museums
Art galleries in Edinburgh and around
♥ Art museum 'National Gallery of Scotland' Edinburgh, 0.3 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Art museum 'Scottish National Portrait Gallery' Edinburgh, 0.7 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Art museum 'Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art' Edinburgh, 1.7 km from the center. On the map
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Map of all churches
Cathedrals and basilicas near Edinburgh
♥ St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Dundee, 58.1 km from the center. On the map
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Photogallery of cultural heritage of Edinburgh
Landmarks of culture on Edinburgh map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc
Culture guide to Edinburgh. Which fascinating sights to visit once you are in Edinburgh: temples, churches, museums, theaters and castles. Recommendations (with addresses, phone numbers and links) on the places 'must visit' in Edinburgh. Plan your own city excursion by using this page info!
