Palace of Holyroodhouse-Edinburgh

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence in Scotland of her Majesty the Queen.  It stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile against the spectacular backdrop of Arthur's Seat.

This is Hollyrood as it appears today.

When Edinburgh became the capital of Scotland in the 15th Century the Kings chose to live in Holyrood Abbey.

The abbey was first built by David ! in 1128 as an Augustinian Abbey. He had a vision of a stag with a cross between his antlers and this abbey was built on the spot.It was a simple first church for Edinburgh that was too small. Extensive monastic buildings were added 1195-1230 The Abbey which was the sanctuary for those who could not pay their debts, including members of the aristocracy. At one time there were 6,500 debtors residing there. They were only allowed out on Sunday.

The dining room table is always set for 30 and will expand to more with an additional leaf or two.

This was the king's bedroom, but he did not sleep here, just met with visitors. Notice the beautiful plaster ceiling.

Kin

1561-1564 Mary Queen of Scots outer chamber. Mary witnessed the brutal murder of her secretary, Rizzio, by her jealous husband Lord Darnley in her private apartments. Her needlework and perfume pomander are housed in these glass cases.

Long ago, unicorns were fierce and hard to capture. In the Palace unicorns are sometimes shown wearing crowns around their necks, chained up. This suggests Scottish royal power. Typical of the times, the palace sported a menagerie including tigers, lynx, bears, gamecocks, an ape, camel, and a lion yard.

Beautiful tapestries adorn the walls of the palace.

The royal gardens are provided flowers by the 7 greenhouses. When the UK celebrated her Golden Jubilee all the flowers were yellow. If you are lucky enough to be invited to a Garden Party given once a year at Holyrood Palace you will be among 8-10,000 people who will be recognized for their service. This holiday lasts one week.