Crown Jewels

Overview

Deep within the ancient walls of Edinburgh Castle, perched atop its volcanic rock, lies a treasure of immense national significance: the Honours of Scotland. Often referred to as the Scottish Crown Jewels, these are not merely glittering relics, but the oldest surviving set of Crown jewels in Britain. This historic collection consists of three principal items: the magnificent Crown of Scotland, the graceful Sceptre, and the imposing Sword of State. Visitors to Edinburgh Castle can marvel at these priceless symbols of Scottish sovereignty, housed securely in the Crown Room, offering a tangible link to centuries of royal history and enduring national identity.

History & Cultural Background

The story of the Honours of Scotland is intertwined with the very fabric of Scottish nationhood. The Crown, in its current form, was remodelled in 1540 for King James V, who first wore it at the coronation of his queen, Mary of Guise. Its creation marked a deliberate statement of Scotland's imperial sovereignty, beholden to no earthly power. The Sceptre, a gift from Pope Alexander VI to James IV around 1494, was also remodelled by James V. The Sword of State, a gift from Pope Julius II to James IV in 1507, was crafted in Italy, boasting an etched blade and a silver-gilt scabbard.

These three items were first used together for the coronation of Mary, Queen of Scots, when she was just nine months old in 1543. They subsequently crowned Scottish monarchs until Charles II in 1651. Their survival through turbulent times is a testament to the dedication of those who protected them. During Oliver Cromwell's invasion in the 1650s, the Honours were spirited away from the castle and hidden, at one point buried beneath a church floor for nine years, to prevent them from falling into English hands. Following the Act of Union in 1707, which joined the parliaments of Scotland and England, the Honours were locked away in a chest within the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle and largely forgotten for over a century.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Honours of Scotland apart is their authenticity and age. While England's original Crown Jewels were largely destroyed by Oliver Cromwell, Scotland's regalia survived intact, making them Britain's oldest and only original set. Each piece embodies centuries of Scottish craftsmanship and royal symbolism. The Crown, adorned with Scottish gold, pearls, and precious gemstones like diamonds, amethysts, and garnets, serves as a powerful emblem of regal splendour. The Sceptre, with its intricate carvings and rock crystal, and the majestic Sword of State, reflect the rich artistic and political connections of their era.

Even today, the Honours continue to play a symbolic role in Scottish national life. The Crown of Scotland is present at each Opening Ceremony of the Scottish Parliament, and the Crown and Sceptre were recently presented to King Charles III at a National Service of Thanksgiving in Edinburgh following his coronation. Though historically displayed alongside the Stone of Destiny—a powerful symbol of Scottish nationhood—the Stone itself has recently moved to a new home at Perth Museum, though its historical association with the Honours remains significant.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Honours have lived a dramatic life, filled with intrigue and narrow escapes. One of the most compelling stories is their rediscovery in 1818 by the renowned novelist Sir Walter Scott. After being sealed away for 111 years, he was granted permission to search Edinburgh Castle. The Honours were found in an oak chest, carefully wrapped in linen cloths, exactly as they had been left, ushering them back into public consciousness. Their protective history extends even further; during the Second World War, fearing a German invasion, the Honours were again hidden within the castle. The Crown was buried under the floor of a water closet, while the Sceptre, Sword, and a silver wand were concealed inside a castle wall, known only to a select few officials.

The meticulous remodelling of the Crown by James V included adding two arches to transform it into an imperial crown, signifying his status as a sovereign accountable only to God. The Sceptre's finial features stylised dolphins, symbols of the Church, and detailed figures of the Virgin Mary, Saint James the Great, and Saint Andrew. The Sword of State even bears a scar from its past, having been broken while being smuggled to safety in 1651.

Visitor Perspective

For any visitor to Edinburgh Castle, a pilgrimage to the Crown Room to see the Honours of Scotland is an unmissable experience. Included with general admission, the exhibition allows you to stand before these tangible pieces of history. As you approach the Crown Room, located on the first floor of the Royal Palace on the East side of Crown Square, anticipation builds, leading to the hushed reverence of the display chamber. While photography is not permitted, the sheer presence of these ancient regalia, crafted from gold, silver, and precious gems, is awe-inspiring. They offer a powerful reflection on Scotland's enduring past and its sovereign spirit, providing a meaningful connection to the monarchs who once wore and held them.