Edinburgh – The Mysterious and Majestic Capital of Scotland

Edinburgh is the ancient, mysterious, and highly picturesque capital of Scotland. The city stands on volcanic hills near the North Sea. With a fascinating history going back to the 7th century, Edinburgh became the official capital of Scotland in the 13th century. Today, it is famous for its outstanding architecture, impressive festivals, and many legends. The Old Town and New Town of Edinburgh are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, full of charm and unique character.

Rising high above the city is Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important monuments in Great Britain. It sits on top of an extinct volcano. The oldest part of the castle is St Margaret’s Chapel, dating back to the 12th century. The castle was home to Scottish kings and queens for hundreds of years and now attracts over a million visitors every year. Inside you can see the Crown of Scotland, the legendary Stone of Destiny, and the famous cannon Mons Meg. Every day at one o’clock, the castle’s time gun is fired, which surprises many visitors.

The historic heart of the city is the Royal Mile—a lively street full of ancient houses, museums, shops with tartan and souvenirs, and atmospheric alleys. The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle with the baroque Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Nearby, you can visit St Giles’ Cathedral, famous for its stained glass windows and dramatic history.

Edinburgh is not only proud of its past. The city is also famous for culture and creativity today. Every August, millions come to the Edinburgh Festival, the world’s largest festival of music, theatre, and art. In the Royal Botanic Garden, visitors can see rare plants from all over the world. Edinburgh is called the “Athens of the North” because it was a centre of science and enlightenment in the 18th century. With its green parks, mysterious closes, and breathtaking city views, Edinburgh is a magical place that makes a strong impression on all who visit.

Vocabulary

• volcanic hill – вулканический холм
• picturesque – живописный
• legend – легенда
• monument – памятник
• extinct volcano – потухший вулкан
• crown – корона
• stone of destiny – Камень Судьбы
• cannon – пушка
• alley – переулок
• residence – резиденция, место жительства
• stained glass – витраж
• rare – редкий
• enlightenment – просвещение
• close – (истор.) узкий переулок
• breathtaking – захватывающий дух

Questions about the text

1. What is the capital of Scotland?
2. On what kind of hills is Edinburgh built?
3. When did Edinburgh become the official capital of Scotland?
4. What are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Edinburgh?
5. What sits on top of an extinct volcano?
6. How old is St Margaret’s Chapel?
7. What famous treasures are kept in Edinburgh Castle?
8. Why is the castle’s gun fired every day at one o’clock?
9. What does the Royal Mile connect?
10. Which palace is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland?
11. What is special about St Giles’ Cathedral?
12. What happens in Edinburgh every August?
13. What can you see in the Royal Botanic Garden?
14. Why is Edinburgh called the “Athens of the North”?
15. What makes Edinburgh a magical place?

Discussion questions

1. Would you like to visit Edinburgh? Why?
2. Which places in Edinburgh would you like to see?
3. Do you enjoy visiting castles and historical sites?
4. Have you ever seen a festival or parade in your country?
5. Would you rather visit museums or parks in a new city?
6. What do you think is special about Scottish culture?
7. Do you like cities with legends and mysteries?
8. How is Edinburgh’s Old Town different from its New Town?
9. What makes a city picturesque for you?
10. What is your favourite historical city?
11. What is a world heritage site in your country?
12. How important are festivals for a city’s life?
13. Would you like to walk the Royal Mile?
14. What kind of souvenirs would you buy in Scotland?
15. Do you think history or modern culture is more important for travellers?