Parliament Square

Overview

Nestled within Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile, Parliament Square is a profoundly significant sub-spot, acting as a vibrant crossroads of Scottish history, law, and faith. Despite its name, it isn't a geometrically perfect square, but rather an L-shaped cobbled public space that gracefully wraps around the venerable St Giles' Kirk. This area serves as a tangible link between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, embodying centuries of political, legal, and religious drama. Surrounded by imposing historical buildings, including the Supreme Courts of Scotland, Parliament Square offers a compelling glimpse into Scotland's past and present, inviting visitors to explore its rich tapestry of stories and landmarks.

History & Cultural Background

Parliament Square's origins trace back to the early 17th century, specifically between 1632 and 1641, when it was formally established as a forecourt to the newly constructed Parliament House. Prior to this, the ground served as a burial site for St Giles' Kirk for over 450 years. Parliament House was a purpose-built structure intended to host the Parliament of Scotland and the Court of Session, Scotland's supreme civil court. Until the Act of Union in 1707, which saw the Scottish Parliament move to Westminster, this square was the beating heart of Scottish political life, a bustling meeting place for politicians and lawyers before they entered the legislative halls. Adjacent to this hub was the Old Tolbooth, a notorious building that served variously as a prison, tax office, and town council meeting place until its demolition in 1817.

What Makes It Special

What sets Parliament Square apart is its remarkable concentration of historical and cultural significance within a compact area. It's a place where the pillars of Scottish society—law, religion, and governance—have converged for centuries. The dominant feature is undoubtedly St Giles' Kirk, with its distinctive crown-shaped spire, a testament to Scotland's enduring independence and faith. Directly facing the Supreme Courts, an equestrian statue of Charles II stands proudly, notable as Edinburgh's oldest surviving statue and the first lead statue cast in Britain. To the east, the Mercat Cross, a historic market cross, marks a traditional center of commerce and public proclamations. Modern additions, like the statue of James Braidwood, founder of the world's first municipal fire service, erected in 2008, highlight Edinburgh's innovative spirit and contributions to the world. This blend of ancient and more recent monuments, all set against a backdrop of historic architecture, creates a uniquely layered historical experience.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Parliament Square is rich with intriguing stories and local lore that breathe life into its cobbled stones. One poignant detail is the Heart of Midlothian, a heart-shaped mosaic set into the pavement near St Giles' Cathedral. This marks the exact spot where the Old Tolbooth prison once stood, and local tradition holds that spitting on it brings good luck, a curious remnant of defiance against the prison's harsh history. Nearby, within the ground, visitors can spot the initials 'I K' and the date '1572,' believed to mark the grave of the fiery Protestant reformer John Knox. Imagine the vibrant atmosphere during the Edinburgh Festival, when the square, much like in the 17th century, fills with performers and vendors, transforming into a lively open-air stage. The area also houses a statue of Adam Smith, the pioneering economist and author of 'The Wealth of Nations,' reminding us of Scotland's profound intellectual contributions.

Visitor Perspective

A stroll through Parliament Square offers a truly immersive journey through time. As you navigate the L-shaped space, the sheer weight of history is palpable. The grandeur of St Giles' Cathedral draws the eye upwards, its intricate details telling tales of centuries of worship. Take a moment to observe the figures cast in bronze and lead, each statue a silent sentinel guarding a piece of Scotland's narrative. The contrast between the ancient cobbles and the surrounding majestic buildings, some dating back to the 17th century, creates a powerful sense of place. It's a spot for quiet reflection on the nation's past and a lively gathering place for events and festivals, embodying Edinburgh's dynamic public life. Looking closely at the ground, you might even spot the subtle markers of history, like the Heart of Midlothian, inviting a moment of playful engagement with local customs. Parliament Square is more than just a historical site; it's an experience that connects you directly to the heart and soul of Edinburgh's Old Town.