The Stirling Castle Chapel is a remarkable historical site that has witnessed the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots and the baptism of Prince Henry, son of King James VI. This chapel, with its rich history and stunning architectural features, offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the grandeur of Scotland’s royal past.
Early History of the Stirling Castle Chapel
The earliest evidence of a chapel within Stirling Castle dates back to 1110, when Alexander I invested in a chapel. Over the centuries, there were multiple chapels within the castle, with the Chapel Royal being a prominent institution. The current Chapel Royal was commissioned by King James VI in 1594 for the baptism of his son, Prince Henry, and was completed in time for the event on August 30, 1594.
Significant Events at the Chapel Royal
The Stirling Castle Chapel has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history, hosting several important events:
- Coronation of Mary Queen of Scots: The infant Mary Queen of Scots was crowned in the Chapel Royal on September 9, 1543.
- Mass Celebrated by Mary Queen of Scots: In 1561, Mary Queen of Scots celebrated Mass in the Chapel Royal.
- Baptism of Prince Henry: King James VI commissioned the current Chapel Royal in 1594 for the baptism of his son, Prince Henry, which took place on August 30, 1594.
Architectural Features and Restoration
The current Chapel Royal is a simple, rectangular, single-story building on a sloping site, completing the square of the Inner Close. The chapel was heavily decorated by artist Valentine Jenkins in preparation for the visit of Charles I in 1633, and these decorations were later restored in the 1990s.
The chapel underwent restoration in the 1930s, and the extra floor added in the 1900s was removed. The full restoration was completed in 1996, returning the chapel to its original state.
Visitor Information
The Chapel Royal is located within Stirling Castle, accessible via the Inner Close. The chapel’s location can be found using the What3Words code: dinner.heap.rocky.
Decline and Later Uses
The Union of the Crowns in 1603 led to a decline in the chapel’s significance as Stirling Castle’s role shifted from a royal residence to a military base. The chapel was later used as a canteen and training rooms for the garrison, and an inserted upper floor was used for stores. It was restored to its original state in the 1990s.
Conclusion
The Stirling Castle Chapel is a remarkable historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s royal past. From the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots to the baptism of Prince Henry, this chapel has witnessed some of the most significant events in Scottish history. With its stunning architectural features and rich history, the Stirling Castle Chapel is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the grandeur of Scotland’s royal heritage.