We love Edinburgh. There aren’t enough words to describe how beautiful the city is. Edinburgh is one of the most charming, magical, and beautiful cities in Scotland. There are so many words we could use to describe the awe of Edinburgh.
The stone-cobbled streets and traditional buildings hold thousands of years of history that have made it into the tourist hotspot it is today. And a hotspot is putting it lightly. On average, over 5 million people come to see the wonders of the city annually. Whether they’re touring around in Scottish motorhomes or staying in one of the medieval-style taverns, tourism is at an all-time high.
Below, we’ll explore the history of the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh.
The Beginning of Edinburgh
Based on the earliest human sites recorded, historians predict that the history of Edinburgh started around 85000 BC. Evidence of habitation was obvious at Castle Rock, Arthur’s Seat, and the surrounding areas at 900 BC.
Those early settlers needed the safety of Castle Rock. The volcanic plug gave them a natural fortress, which would later become the site of Edinburgh Castle. By the time the Romans pushed into southern Scotland, there was already a thriving hillfort. Edinburgh, or to Britons, Din Eidyn, was already becoming a stronghold before Scotland as we know it even existed.
The Angles controlled it in the 7th century, naming it Eiden’s Burgh, loosely translating to “Eiden’s Fort.” That’s where the city got its name. After that, settlements continued to grow, walls appeared, and the foundations of Edinburgh formed.
Moments That Changed the Course of Edinburgh’s History
Edinburgh loved drama. Fires, sieges, and political betrayal shaped the city as much as its architects.
We have to start in the 11th century when King Malcolm III married Saint Margaret. She transformed the rough fortress town into a royal city. Churches, trade, and culture flourished. Edinburgh became a place of power.
Now to the 16th century. Edinburgh found itself at the heart of the Scottish Reformation. John Knox preached against Catholicism at St. Giles’ Cathedral as riots swept through the streets. It changed the entire culture and religion of Edinburgh.
Then came the 18th-century Jacobite uprisings. Edinburgh was captured briefly by Charles Edward Stuart—better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie. His army marched up the Royal Mile and took control of the city without much resistance. But he didn’t hold it for long. These moments, scattered across centuries, shaped Edinburgh’s identity.
And there are so many other moments we could have mentioned that changed the course of Edinburgh’s history.
Iconic Figures Throughout Time
Some people, rather than events, are etched into Scottish history. They’re iconic.
Mary, Queen of Scots, is at the top of our list. She spent most of her turbulent life in the city. Queen Mary gave birth to James VI at Edinburgh Castle, and her political battles were often within its walls. Love her or hate her, her story is stitched into the city’s history.
Then there’s Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. You could have found him in taverns around the Old Town. He left behind a trail of inspiration that Scottish literature will never forget.
Or there’s Sir Walter Scott, another literary icon. He gave Scotland a romanticized identity through his novels. His legacy remains at the Scott Monument on Princes Street.
And we can’t forget William Wallace. His battles for Scotland’s freedom are some of the most famous. Although his ending was one of treason (false accusations), the part he played in the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297 is the most iconic.
Edinburgh Today
Edinburgh today is Starbucks (20 in total?!?) and Nando’s (7 in total). We’re joking (or are we?). Despite mass tourism leading Edinburgh to become somewhat of a tourist trap, depending on who you’re asking, the walls still remain the same. The history oozes out of every cobbled street and medieval-style building. And that’s the magic people come for.
Yes, you might have the opportunity to grab an iced matcha with strawberry cold foam, oat milk only, on every corner, but next to it is a building that was home to a famous architect who helped build medieval Edinburgh. Or there’s a pub where William Wallace once sat.
Some of the most iconic sites for you to visit include
- Edinburgh Castle
- Palace of Holyrood House
- National Museum of Scotland
- Harry Potter Walking Tour
In our opinion, Edinburgh today still holds its charm. It doesn’t matter how modern the cafes and restaurants are becoming; the magic remains. You won’t regret a visit to our beautiful capital.