The magnificent Italian city of Edinburgh is totally surrounded by far-off locales and high-end apparel. Edinburgh has a global reputation for having amazing architectural designs and a keen sense of style that has been present in its culture since very early antiquity. What does Edinburgh have a reputation for? Consider the top ten reasons listed below, which include all of the country’s historical sites as well as other unique, remarkable institutions.
1. The world’s top art festivals
The top festival city in the world is frequently considered to be Edinburgh. Every year, a wide range of events are held there, attracting participants and performers from all over the world. You can find a festival in Edinburgh for almost every love or interest, whether it be science, music, comedy, movies, or books.
What are the most well-known festivals? Definitely at the top of the list is the Fringe Festival.
It’s hardly surprising that crowds of people gather here each August to watch comedies, plays, and other events because it’s called the “single greatest celebration of arts and culture on the planet.”
A few additional favorites are the International Film Festival and the Edinburgh International Book Festival, which both honor the written word in all of its forms. The latter shows everything from small independent films to major Hollywood blockbusters. Even a few famous people might be seen!
2. Birthplace of Harry Potter
J. K. Rowling composed the majority of the Harry Potter books in Edinburgh, which has gained notoriety. In actuality, the cafe where she sat and wrote the first several books—the Elephant House—is still in operation today. Her favorite location, according to the cafe, was in the back room where she had a comfortable seat with a view of Edinburgh Castle.
3. Referred to as the “Athens of the North”
Edinburgh changed its name in the 18th century to become known as the Athens of the North.
Edinburgh determined it would rather be known for its contributions to literature, medicine, philosophy, economics, and other intellectual pursuits than for its industrial accomplishments, in contrast to other cities that were more concerned with these.
It attempted to influence the globe in a similar way to how Athens did in antiquity.
Several Greek-style architectural details that enliven the city were created by architects to commemorate this cultural inspiration. You can see pillars and porticos in Edinburgh’s New Town that recall the elaborate patterns of Ancient Greece.
4. “The Royal Mile”
The Royal Mile, a well-known thoroughfare running through the center of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connects two important places. Holyrood Palace, the Queen and her family’s official residence whenever they visit Scotland, is located between Edinburgh Castle at one end and the other.
The Royal Mile was once Edinburgh’s principal thoroughfare and continues to be a major thoroughfare today. Alongside this (approximately) mile-long route are a variety of taverns, eateries, and businesses. It is a great place for travelers to begin their journey when it is busy and active during the day.
5. The New and Old Town
The Old Town and New Town are the best examples of Edinburgh’s captivating architecture, which is well-known for it. It’s obvious why both places were named UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1995.
The New Town’s Georgian structures beautifully contrast with the Old Town’s medieval architecture. They offer glimmering glimpses into many eras of Edinburgh’s past, like made-up towns ripped from a storybook.
6. Edinburgh Castle
The most contested castle in the world, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. Not only is the magnificent castle on Castle Rock one of Edinburgh’s top tourist destinations, but it’s also one of Western Europe’s most interesting historical sites.
Edinburgh Castle has a long history, having served as a royal home, a military castle, and a jail during wartime.
Additionally, it presently holds the record for being Europe’s most besieged fortress. That’s quite a record, especially given the sheer number of castles in Europe! 23 different times throughout history, Edinburgh Castle has been attacked, necessitating the reconstruction of this old castle.
Castle Rock was inhabited by people for well over a thousand years before Edinburgh Castle was built. The area has a rich history. It makes sense that it’s the second-most popular paid attraction in the whole of the United Kingdom.
7. Scotch Whisky
Scotch Whisky, usually known as Scotch, is well-known in Scotland. It must spend a minimum of three years maturing in an oak barrel after being brewed from malted barley, grains, or a combination of the two.
Another crucial principle? Whiskey must be produced in Scotland in order to be legally referred to as Scotch.
One of the top Scotch Whisky experiences in the nation is available in Edinburgh. Anyone interested in this delectable dark beverage can sample it at the Scotch Whisky Experience, where they can also enroll in a class to learn more about its background.
8. Among the top universities on the planet
Since its founding in 1583, when it was regarded among the top 20 universities in the world, the University of Edinburgh has been a major force in education.
At this illustrious university, many of history’s greatest philosophers and scientists got their start. It’s been claimed that even Sir Arthur Conan Doyle drew inspiration for his famous character Sherlock Holmes from this place.
Many of the university’s former students are now prime ministers, astronauts, and Nobel Prize winners.
Did you know that this university offers courses in psychokinesis? That’s another interesting tidbit. Consider Eleven from Stranger Things if you’re unclear what that is.
9. Foods
The finest thing about Edinburgh is the food. Mutton mince, oats, and regional herbs are ingredients in the Scottish delicacy known as haggis. It has a gritty texture and pairs well with turnips and potatoes (known in Scotland as nephews and patties).
It is customary to serve haggis and read the poetry “The Title for a Haggis” on January 31st, the night of the burning and Scottish national holiday. Haggis can be found on the menus of cafes and high-end restaurants all across Edinburgh, but you can find several traditional pubs if you head toward the Old Town Grassmarket.
10. Monuments
This landmark Gothic monument pays homage to Sir Walter Scott, the author of Ivanhoe and Rob Roy, as well as many other writers and poets. Princes St Gardens in the heart of the city are centered on this Victorian building.
Edinburgh is most recognized for its monument, which is the main reason why. There are various viewing platforms that are 61 meters high and may be reached by ascending a spiral staircase to the central tower. Look for the 64 sculptures on the Scott Monument, all of which are depictions of individuals from Scott’s books.
