Explora la cultura de Edinburgh: Tradición viva
Sumérgete en la rica historia y cultura de Edinburgh a través de sus museos y monumentos.
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Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is one of the most spectacular cities in the world, a place where the drama of the natural landscape merges with ancient history. Located on a series of extinct volcanoes, its horizon is dominated by the imposing Castle that stands on a rock. The city is divided into two: the labyrinthine and medieval Old Town, which descends the Royal Mile, and the elegant and orderly Georgian New Town. The birthplace of the Scottish Enlightenment and the literary capital of the world, Edinburgh comes to life in a unique way each August, when it becomes the global epicenter of the arts with its world-famous festivals. It is a city of mystery, intellect and unforgettable beauty.
Culture & Heritage
Discover the rich history, art and traditions of Edinburgh
The festival capital of the world and a UNESCO literary city. A cultural power.
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Museums & Galleries
Edinburgh Castle
The iconic fortress that dominates the city from its volcanic rock. It houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny and offers spectacular panoramic views.
Royal Mile
The succession of streets that form the main artery of the Old Town, connecting Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Full of pubs, shops and alleys ('closes').
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. An elegant palace with a turbulent history, closely associated with Mary, Queen of Scots.
National Museum of Scotland
A spectacular, free-entry museum covering everything from Scottish history to science, design and world cultures. Fantastic for all ages.
Festivals & Events
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
AugustThe largest performing arts festival in the world.
Edinburgh International Festival
AugustThe official festival of world-class classical music, theatre, opera and dance.
Hogmanay
December 31One of the most famous New Year's Eve celebrations in the world.
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History
Origins
The castle crag has been a defensive bastion since the Bronze Age. The city itself began to take shape around the castle in the early Middle Ages, becoming the capital of Scotland in the 15th century.
Development
The 18th century was Edinburgh's golden age. During the Scottish Enlightenment, the city was an intellectual hotbed, home to thinkers such as David Hume and Adam Smith, earning it the nickname 'the Athens of the North'. This boom in prosperity and population led to the construction of the magnificent Georgian New Town, a masterpiece of urban planning.
Modern era
After a period of industrial decline, Edinburgh reinvented itself in the 20th century. The Edinburgh International Festival, founded in 1947 to revive the spirit of post-war Europe, and its spontaneous and massive 'Fringe', transformed it into the festival capital of the world. In 1999, with devolution of powers, the city once again became the seat of the Scottish Parliament, reaffirming its role as the political and cultural heart of the nation.
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Culture
The festival capital of the world and a UNESCO literary city. A cultural power.
Heritage
The historic heart of Scotland and a powerhouse of the Enlightenment that changed Western thought.
Architecture
A world-class architectural complex, with the medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town declared World Heritage Sites.
Want to know more about Edinburgh?
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Climb Arthur's Seat for sunrise or sunset
It's a hike that requires some effort, but watching the sun rise or set over the city from the top of this ancient mountain is an absolutely magical and unforgettable experience.
Stroll along the Water of Leith
To escape the crowds, follow the Water of Leith trail. It will take you through the quiet and picturesque Dean Village and into the bohemian neighborhood of Stockbridge, making you feel like you are miles from the city.
Explore the 'Close'
Don't just walk the Royal Mile. Enter the narrow alleys ('closes' or 'wynds') that branch off from it. Each one has its own story and will transport you to another time.
tap water
Tap water in Scotland is of excellent quality and safe to drink.
Tickets and monuments in Edinburgh
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