Blog Post

Edinburgh Castle Art and Gifts

April 22, 2024

Emily adds a Splash of Colour to the world famous Edinburgh Castle.

Brief History of Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, situated on Castle Rock at the heart of Edinburgh, boasts a rich 3000-year history of human habitation, dating back to the late Bronze Age (circa 900 BC) and continuing uninterrupted to the present day. This enduring legacy positions it as the U.K.'s oldest continuously inhabited location.

Serving as a symbol of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle is home to the nation's Crown Jewels (the Honours of Scotland), the Scottish National War Memorial, the National War Museum, the Royal Regiment of Scotland headquarters, and the Royal Scots and Royal Scots Dragoon Guards regimental associations and museums. It serves as a prominent venue for international and state functions, including the renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo held annually in August. Drawing over one million visitors each year, it stands as Scotland's premier paid tourist attraction.

3 Interesting historical facts about Edinburgh Castle over the centuries.

1. The castle is built on the top of an extinct volcano.

Edinburgh Castle stands proudly on Castle Rock, a volcanic plug estimated to have formed some 350 million years ago. Rising 130 meters above sea level, this historically significant site has witnessed human settlement for over 3,500 years. Its location made it one of the best defended fortresses in Scotland.

2. Oldest building in Edinburgh.

In 1093, Queen Margaret, who would later become a Saint, passed away while residing on Castle Rock. David I, the youngest son of Malcolm III and Margaret, took the initiative to elevate the residence on Castle Rock into a powerful royal castle. Thought to have been completed in 1130, St Margaret’s Chapel situated within the castle walls is documented as the oldest building in Edinburgh.

3. The most besieged castle in Britain.

Edinburgh Castle has always been popular destination, but unlike today the castle gates weren’t always open wide to welcome visitors inside. Over the centuries this castle has been besieged 23 times, making it one of the most attacked castles in Britain.

Emily Ward - Edinburgh Castle Art Products

Emily's stunning representation of Edinburgh Castle can be found across the full array of Artwork and Gift products, from Canvases and Framed Prints to Kitchen Splashbacks, Cushions, Coasters, and China Cups.