Just an old castle

Today was a 14,000-step day. The biggest item on our agenda was to visit one of the most popular tourists’ sites in Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Castle. This castle has been a part of Scotland’s history since the 12th century. Research has shown this area has been inhabited since the Iron Age. The first royal castle was built on what is known as Castle Rock in the 12th century under the reign of David the First. As one of the most important strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle was involved in many historical conflicts from the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century to the Jacobite rising of 1745. Records have shown the castle was placed under siege 26 times during 1,100-year history. As significant a role the castle has played in the history of Scotland, I found several items I believe might interest you. In 1818 Sir Walter Scott was given permission to search the castle for the Crown of Scotland, believed lost after the union of Scotland and England in 1707. Breaking into a sealed room, now known as the Crown Room, and unlocking a chest within, he rediscovered the crown jewels, which were then put on public display. We saw them while we were touring the castle. Unfortunately, photographs were not allowed. The castle was used as a prison on and off for many years. Among prisoners held here were American military POW’s from our revolutionary war and Germans from WWII. The castle has become a recognizable symbol of Edinburgh and of Scotland. It is the 2nd most fee paid tourist attraction in Scotland and England. If you come here and you are a tourist, I think you should include this castle on your itinerary.

I had more to write about on todays events, but, it was do this or listen to the Auburn football game. I should have worked on the blog.