The big cannon at Edinburgh Castle, known as Mons Meg, is a true marvel of medieval engineering. This massive bombard, built in 1449, has a rich history and impressive specifications that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Mons Meg: The Colossal Cannon
Mons Meg is a cannon that was built in the Duchy of Burgundy (modern-day Belgium) in 1449. It was a gift to King James II of Scotland in 1454 and has since become an iconic symbol of Edinburgh Castle.
Specifications of Mons Meg
- Type: Cannon
- Place of origin: Mons, Duchy of Burgundy
- Service history: Used by the Kingdom of Scotland
- Mass: 6.6 tons (15,366 pounds or 6,970 kg)
- Length: 406 cm (13 feet or 4.0 m)
- Barrel length: 280 cm
- Diameter: 20 inches (510 mm)
- Shell weight: 175 kg (386 lb)
The Fascinating History of Mons Meg
Mons Meg has a rich and captivating history that spans centuries. Let’s delve into the key events that have shaped this iconic cannon.
Construction and Gifting
Mons Meg was constructed by Jehan Cambier, the artillery maker to the Duke of Burgundy, and was tested in June 1449. It was then gifted to King James II of Scotland in 1454, a testament to the strong diplomatic ties between Scotland and Burgundy at the time.
Military Service
The cannon was employed in various sieges until the mid-16th century, demonstrating its formidable power on the battlefield. However, by the 1540s, Mons Meg was retired from active service and was used only for ceremonial occasions.
Incidents and Relocation
In 1680, the barrel of Mons Meg burst during a firing to celebrate the visit of James, Duke of Albany and York (later King James VII). This incident led to the cannon being taken to the Tower of London in 1754. After a campaign by Sir Walter Scott and the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, Mons Meg was returned to Edinburgh Castle in 1829.
Mons Meg Today
Mons Meg now holds a prominent place at Edinburgh Castle, serving as a testament to the castle’s rich history and the ingenuity of medieval artillery.
Current Location and Display
Mons Meg is currently on display outside St Margaret’s Chapel at Edinburgh Castle, allowing visitors to admire its impressive size and craftsmanship.
Ceremonial Firing
Although Mons Meg is not fired regularly, it is still used during Edinburgh’s annual Hogmanay celebrations as part of the firework display. However, this firing is largely theatrical, and the gun is not fully discharged.
Other Cannons at Edinburgh Castle
While Mons Meg is the most famous cannon at Edinburgh Castle, there are other notable artillery pieces on display.
One o’Clock Gun
The One o’Clock Gun is a 105mm field gun that is fired daily at 1 pm, except on Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day. This tradition has been ongoing since 1861 and serves as a time signal for the city of Edinburgh.
Half Moon Battery
The Half Moon Battery features 18-pounder cannons made in 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars. These cannons are located on the eastern side of the castle and add to the impressive array of artillery on display.
Conclusion
The Edinburgh Castle big cannon, Mons Meg, is a true marvel of medieval engineering and a testament to the rich history of Scotland. Its impressive specifications, captivating backstory, and continued ceremonial use make it a must-see attraction for any castle enthusiast visiting Edinburgh.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mons_Meg
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/highlights/one-oclock-gun
- https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mons_Meg
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/highlights/mons-meg
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/highlights/half-moon-battery