Edinburgh Castle’s Hidden History
10 Fascinating Facts
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, dominating the skyline of the capital from its perch atop Castle Rock. But beyond its famous silhouette, the castle holds a history filled with fascinating stories, hidden secrets, and little-known facts. Here are ten things you might not know about Edinburgh Castle.
1. It Sits on an Extinct Volcano 🌋
The castle is built on Castle Rock, a volcanic plug formed around 350 million years ago. The sheer cliffs made it an ideal defensive stronghold, used for thousands of years.
2. It’s One of the Most Besieged Places in the World ⚔️
Edinburgh Castle has faced at least 26 sieges, earning it a place among the most attacked fortresses in history. Key battles include the Lang Siege (1571–73) and multiple conflicts during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
3. The Honours of Scotland Were Hidden from Cromwell’s Army 👑
When Oliver Cromwell’s forces invaded in the 1650s, Scotland’s Crown Jewels—the Honours of Scotland—were hidden at Dunnottar Castle before being smuggled out to safety, preventing them from being seized.
4. The Castle Was Once a Royal Residence 🏰
Though now a military stronghold and tourist attraction, Edinburgh Castle was once a royal palace. Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI of Scotland (later James I of England) in 1566 inside the castle’s Royal Apartments.
5. The Famous One O’Clock Gun Was Introduced for Shipping 🕐
Since 1861, the One O’Clock Gun has fired almost daily from the castle. However, it wasn’t just for show—it was originally a time signal for ships in the Firth of Forth to set their clocks accurately.
6. There’s a Hidden Prison Below the Castle ⛓️
Deep inside Edinburgh Castle lies a former prison for captured sailors and soldiers, dating back to the 18th century. Prisoners from the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars were once held there.
7. The Castle Was Home to Scotland’s Oldest Building ⛪
Tucked within the castle walls is St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Scotland. Built in 1130 by David I in honour of his mother, Queen Margaret, it remains a place of quiet reflection.
8. A Phantom Piper is Said to Haunt the Castle 👻
Legend tells of a ghostly bagpiper who disappeared while exploring underground tunnels beneath the castle centuries ago. His eerie music is said to be heard echoing through the halls.
9. It Houses the National War Museum of Scotland 🎖️
Within the castle grounds, visitors can explore the National War Museum, which contains weapons, uniforms, and military artefacts spanning 400 years of Scottish history.
10. It Holds the Oldest Surviving Letter from a Scottish King ✉️
The castle contains a letter from King Edward I of England to the Sheriff of York, dated 1297, describing William Wallace’s attack on Northumberland. It’s one of the oldest preserved documents related to Scottish history.
A Fortress of Legends and Secrets
From ancient battles to royal births and ghostly tales, Edinburgh Castle’s walls have seen it all. It remains one of Scotland’s most fascinating historic sites, full of hidden stories waiting to be discovered.
Which of these facts surprised you the most? Let us know in the comments!