Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an imposing volcanic rock, is a central part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inscribed in 1995, this remarkable urban landscape reflects the significant changes in European urban planning, with the organic medieval Old Town and the planned Georgian New Town coexisting in a dramatic fashion.
UNESCO Status of Edinburgh Castle
- Inscription Date: 1995
- Criteria: Criterion (iv) – The Old and New Towns together form a dramatic reflection of significant changes in European urban planning.
- Outstanding Universal Value: The remarkable juxtaposition of two clearly articulated urban planning phenomena, with the Old Town and New Town linked across the landscape divide by the urban viaduct, North Bridge, and the Mound.
Edinburgh Castle’s Contribution to the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe, with a history spanning centuries as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress. Its strategic location on Castle Hill and its architectural evolution, including the addition of the Half Moon Battery and the Argyle Battery, contribute to its significance within the UNESCO-recognized site.
Historical Significance
- Edinburgh Castle has been a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress for centuries, making it one of the oldest fortified places in Europe.
- The castle has witnessed many significant historical events, including the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots.
- The Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, are housed within the castle.
Architectural Importance
- The castle’s strategic location on Castle Hill and its evolution over the centuries have resulted in a unique architectural landscape.
- The addition of the Half Moon Battery and the Argyle Battery are examples of the castle’s architectural development.
- The castle’s silhouette and views are protected by the Skyline Policy, which controls tall buildings and safeguards the property’s world-renowned appearance.
Cultural Value
- Edinburgh Castle has been the site of many important historical events, including the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots.
- The castle is home to the Honours of Scotland, the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, which are a significant cultural treasure.
- The castle’s long history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress has made it an integral part of Scotland’s cultural heritage.
Management and Conservation
The management and conservation of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO World Heritage Site, including Edinburgh Castle, is a collaborative effort between Historic Scotland and the City of Edinburgh Council. The site is protected by a Skyline Policy that controls tall buildings and safeguards the property’s world-renowned silhouette and views.
Management Plan
- The Management Plan for the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh is implemented by Historic Scotland and the City of Edinburgh Council.
- The plan aims to protect the Outstanding Universal Value of the property, which includes the remarkable juxtaposition of the Old Town and New Town.
Conservation Efforts
- The Skyline Policy controls tall buildings and safeguards the property’s world-renowned silhouette and views.
- Edinburgh World Heritage, a charity established in 1999, promotes the property, disperses grants, and engages with the community to enhance and conserve the site.
Visitor Information
Edinburgh Castle is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The castle is open daily from 9:30 am, and tickets often sell out in advance, so it’s recommended to plan your visit accordingly.
Getting There
- The castle is located in the heart of Edinburgh City Centre and is accessible by bus, tram, and train.
Things to See and Do
- Visitors can explore the Royal Palace, the Honours of Scotland, Mons Meg, and the Scottish National War Memorial, among other attractions.
- The castle’s strategic location and architectural evolution make it a must-see for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture.
References
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Old and New Towns of Edinburgh. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/728/
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Old and New Towns of Edinburgh. Retrieved from https://whc.unesco.org/en/soc/882/
- Edinburgh Castle. (n.d.). Official Edinburgh Castle Website. Retrieved from https://www.edinburghcastle.scot
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). List of World Heritage Sites in Scotland. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_World_Heritage_Sites_in_Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle. (n.d.). History of the Castle. Retrieved from https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/history.