Edinburgh Castle and Queen Elizabeth II

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Edinburgh Castle has a rich history of royal connections, including significant ties to Queen Elizabeth II. The castle has served as a royal residence for many centuries, witnessing key moments in Scotland’s history, and continues to be an iconic part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

Queen Elizabeth II’s Connections to Edinburgh Castle

  1. Gun Salute: After Queen Elizabeth II’s death, a 21-gun salute was fired from Edinburgh Castle as part of the royal procession in Edinburgh, adding to the solemnity of the occasion.

  2. Royal Residence: Edinburgh Castle has been a royal residence for many monarchs, including Queen Margaret, Mary Queen of Scots, and James VI, who was born at the castle in 1566.

  3. Birthplace: James VI, the son of Mary Queen of Scots and Henry, Lord Darnley, was the only monarch born at Edinburgh Castle. He later united the crowns of Scotland and England in 1603.

  4. Royal Connections: The castle has been associated with numerous monarchs, including Queen Margaret, Mary Queen of Scots, and James IV, who all played significant roles in shaping the castle’s history.

  5. Historical Significance: Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, with a long history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress.

  6. Military Garrison: Following the Union of the Crowns in 1603, Edinburgh Castle grew into a significant military base, with defences rebuilt and enhanced.

  7. Crown Jewels: The Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, were created in Scotland and Italy during the reigns of James IV and James V. They were first used together for the coronation of a monarch in 1543, when Mary Queen of Scots came to the throne.

  8. State Funeral: After Queen Elizabeth II’s death, her coffin was taken from Balmoral Castle to Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, where it lay in repose before being taken in procession to St Giles’ Cathedral and eventually to Westminster Abbey for her state funeral.

Practical Information

edinburgh castle queen elizabeth

Cost

  • Peak season tickets (April 1 to September 30) cost £19.50 for adults and £11.50 for children.
  • Off-peak season tickets (October 1 to March 31) cost £17.50 for adults and £10.50 for children.

Timings

  • Edinburgh Castle is open from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM from April 1 to September 30.
  • Edinburgh Castle is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM from October 1 to March 31.

Location

  • The castle’s address is Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, Scotland.

Hours

  • The castle is open daily, with extended hours during peak season.

Rates

  • Ticket rates vary depending on the time of year and type of ticket.

Value

  • Edinburgh Castle is a significant historical site and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in Scottish history and royalty.

Conclusion

Edinburgh Castle’s rich history and royal connections, including its ties to Queen Elizabeth II, make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring Scotland’s past. From the gun salute fired after the Queen’s death to the castle’s role as a royal residence and the birthplace of James VI, the castle’s links to the British monarchy are undeniable. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, a visit to Edinburgh Castle is sure to leave a lasting impression.

References:

  1. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/history
  2. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/queen-elizabeth-iis-coffin-taken-balmoral-edinburgh-rcna47175
  3. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/the-characters
  4. https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/highlights/the-royal-palace
  5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holyrood_Palace

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