As Scotland’s most-visited paid tourist attraction and with more than 1.3 million visitors last year, Edinburgh Castle is well worth a visit. With that in mind, why not find great deals on Edinburgh hotels here and visit the iconic building this summer?
History
Dominating the skyline of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle is a fortress steeped in history. Sitting on top of the volcanic Castle Rock, the site dates as far back as the 9th century BC, with the royal castle existing since at least the reign of David I in the 12th century. By the 17th century its principal role was as a military base and it continues to have a strong connection with the Army, being one of the few ancient castles in Britain that still has a military garrison; albeit for largely ceremonial and administrative purposes.
Military Tattoo
Every August more than 200,000 people visit the castle for the Edinburgh Military Tattoo which takes place on the Esplanade. Performers from all over the world take part in a parade of the pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments, with the climax of the evening consisting of a lone piper playing in memory of the dead comrades in arms followed by the pipe bands joining in a medley of traditional Scottish tunes.
One O’ Clock Gun
Fired at 13:00 every day except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day, the One O’ Clock Gun is a time signal for ships that was established in 1861. Although the gun is no longer required for its original purpose, the ceremony has become a popular tourist attraction.
The castle also houses the Honours of Scotland, the Scottish National War Memorial and the National War Museum of Scotland.
* NOTE: This is a Guest Post
dream vacation teh!!! 🙂