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 Projected and real views of the city |
Castlehill Edinburgh EH1 2ND United Kingdom +44 131 226 3709 http://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/ |
Perched on top of the Royal Mile, this is the place to "see" Edinburgh - however not necessarily by looking at the views! Instead, visitors look at a white disk in the middle of a darkened room onto which the surrounding area is projected (including all the innocent and oblivious passers-by). There's a voyeuristic air amongst the viewers, as they hover around the images, chuckling as people and things are singled out for scrutiny - all good fun. There is also an impressive hologram exhibition, which is well worth a look. For the traditionalists, a fine view of the city can be found without refraction contraptions, at the very top of the building. Do be warned however, as both the view from the roof and the view from the camera are dependent on natural light - dark clouds and general fogginess will give rise to disappointment for gawpers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: Mark Ferbert  |
 Photo: Damien du Toit |
 Photo: Claire Lynch |
 Photo: Monica Clements |
 Photo: Justine Powell |
 Photo: Simon King |
 Photo: Simon King |
 Photo: Peter Corbett |
 Photo: Andrea See |
 Photo: Justine Powell |
 Photo: Natalie |
 Photo: Theo van Diepen |
 Photo: eva |
 Photo: Izabela Palubicka |
 Photo: Paul Hamill |
 Photo: Arna Runars |
 Photo: Sara-Jane K |
 Photo: Piotr Zalewa |
 Photo: Keith Ackers |
 Photo: Andy Stacey |
 Photo: Kate Sitzman |
 Photo: Simon Watterson |
 Photo: Jan Hosowicz |
 Photo: Kathleen Morgenstern |
 Photo: elaineantoine |
 Photo: Sharron Williamson |
 Photo: Eric Law |
 Photo: W. Mosteiko |
 Photo: Beryl Firestone |
 Photo: Claire Donovan |
 Photo: Paul Dalton |
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 Scottish Episcopal |
Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 4BJ United Kingdom +44 131 229 7565 http://www.thechoir.co.uk/ |
Built in 1818, St John's Church stands at the west end of Princes Street, on the corner of Lothian Road. It's the only building on Princes Street permitted to obscure the view to the castle as, during its construction, an Act of Parliament was passed to prevent any further development there. It was built by William Burn, on the site of a market garden and during the festival the church grounds still serve to host numerous little craft stalls. The neo-Gothic windows of St John's are among its most striking features, dating from the Victorian revival period of glass-making techniques. There's a range of contemporary sculpture, tapestry and painting, and a small library. The grounds also house the Cornerstone Coffee House, the Peace and Justice Centre, the One World Shop, and the Cornerstone Bookshop, which sells Christian literature. If you love choral and classical music, the church holds concerts throughout the year - call for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Damien du Toit |
 Photo: James Stringer |
 Home for the arts |
8 Advocates Close 357 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1PS United Kingdom +44 131 225 9721 |
Hidden away down a little closie just off the Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh's oldest houses. This charming medieval tenement now houses the DOM - Home For The Arts. This unique European arts center was set in 1996 and has regular exhibitions of artists with international standing, alongside program of readings and recitals. The ethos of DOM is to display work outside the mainstream that has metaphysical and spiritual sensibilities. There is a great little gift shop too —which offers some original items. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Edinburgh Castle |
Castlehill City of Edinburgh, Midlothian Scotland EH1 2NG United Kingdom +44 131 225 9846 http://www.edinburghcastle.biz |
The castle is Edinburgh's best known and most popular attraction and one of the most visited ancient monuments in the UK. It has breathtaking views of Edinburgh and tons to interest young and old alike - the Great Hall and Royal Apartments, the Crown Room, the Half Moon Battery, statues of Robert the Bruce and William Wallace, and the Esplanade to name but a few. The Esplanade is also the venue of the world-renowned Military Tattoo, with its music, marching and historical re-enactments. The castle is home to Scotland's most famous cannon - a 15th century monstrosity called Mons Meg, which is fired every day (except Sunday) at precisely 1pm - be warned, it's deafening! In a more sombre corner of the castle is the Witches' Well where over 300 women were burned between 1492-1722. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Hill |
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Edinburgh Festival Fringe |
180 High Street (Organisor) City of Edinburgh EH1 1QS United Kingdom +44 (0)131 226 0026 (Organisor) http://www.edfringe.com/ |
The Fringe is a welcoming forum for both the established star and the unknown genius of tomorrow. For three weeks in August each year, the city is alive with a frenzy of creativity, hosting more than 2,000 shows held at various venues throughout the city. More than 30% of the program is smade up by theater. The rest is rounded out with comedy, music, dance, children's shows and exhibitions. Expect anything from the profoundly serious to the deliriously silly. The program is launched in June, with tickets available through August; book early if you want to get to your first-choice program. Ticket prices vary according to venue and performance. If you're tight on cash or someone who's always looking for a bargain, keep in mind that over 300 of the shows are free to the public. Call or check the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: FiPZiE.CoM |
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The oldest of six arts festivals |
Various venues Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 131 473 2001 http://www.edinburgh-festivals... |
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of six arts festivals which, together, make up The Edinburgh Festival. The focus of the event is to "provide the world with a centre where, year after year, all that is best in music, drama and the visual arts can be seen and heard in ideal surroundings". Edinburgh is indeed ideal: the beauty of the surrounding landscape provides the perfect backdrop for the music and drama of the International Festival. Opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and performances all take place in the larger venues around the city. The programme is available in March, and tickets are EUR5. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Gardner |
 Photo: Lauren |
 Photo: Sivakumar Rajamanickam |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Peter Doe |
 Photo: www.theedinburghblog |
 Photo: E.Robson |
 Photo: Greg Beal |
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World famous military display |
32 Market St Edinburgh EH1 1QB United Kingdom +44 131 555 1188 http://www.edintattoo.co.uk/ |
The Tattoo is one of the world's finest military displays. First performed in 1950, it is a splendid mix of pomp, pageantry, music, ceremony, entertainment and drama, all set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle during the festival. Although the central appeal still remains the stirring sight and sound of the massed pipes and drums of the Scottish regiments, the event has an international flavour with performers invited from all over the world. Tickets range from GBP9-GBP25, depending upon seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Martin Luechinger |
 Photo: Jim Elliott |
 Photo: Arabella Benson |
 Photo: Jenny Lally |
 Photo: Eddie Dowds |
 Photo: J.Rollfinke |
 Photo: Tiffany Pan |
 Photo: Laura Wylie |
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A note-by-note history |
Reid Concert Hall Bristo Square Edinburgh EH8 9AH United Kingdom +44 131 650 2423 http://www.music.ed.ac.uk/euchmi/ |
This fascinating collection charts the history of musical instruments in the evocative Victorian surroundings of the Reid Concert Hall. Their technical evolution is explained and demonstrated—with over a thousand instruments from around the globe to woo visitors. Over four hundred years of craftsmanship is on display, including some intriguingly bizarre-shaped pieces. A new feature is the sound laboratory— an interactive exploration area that allows you to "blow your own trumpet" using artificial lips. Opening times often change, so call to check. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Intoxicating architecture |
8 Lauriston Place Edinburgh EH3 9EQ United Kingdom +44 131 229 7263 http://www.george-heriots.com/ |
George Heriot's School is one of Edinburgh's most respected private educational establishments, and is housed in a splendid building dating from 1628. It was endowed by George Heriot, the goldsmith and jeweller to James VI - the jingling Geordie of Sir Walter Scott's novel Fortunes of Nigel. Huge octagonal chimneys rise from this former hospital building - one of many fine architectural features included in the heady mixture of Gothic, English domestic and neo-classical styles. The impressive building may be viewed from the pristine grounds, or on the occasional open access day. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fergus Ray Murray |
 Photo: chrisdonia |
 Photo: John L Arata |
 Photo: John Blower |
 Photo: Annemarie Pearson |
 Photo: Iain Forsyth |
 Photo: Hilary Wardle |
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Seventeenth century home |
477B Lawnmarket Edinburgh EH1 2NT United Kingdom +44 131 226 5856 |
This 17th century former abode of the merchant Thomas Gledstone was rescued from the bulldozer in 1934 and has been wonderfully restored by the National Trust for Scotland. Soak up the atmosphere amongst open fireplaces, remarkable painted ceilings and period furnishings. A reconstructed shop booth displays replicas of 17th century goods. As you would expect from the Trust, the guides and displays are very informative. Compare the style and living conditions with the opulent New Town Georgian House. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: hazelstitch |
 Photo: Kristen Wroth |
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Where Greyfriar's Bobby kept his vigil |
Greyfriars Place Edinburgh EH1 2QQ United Kingdom +44 131 226 5429 http://www.greyfriarskirk.com/ |
The kirkyard, dedicated on Christmas Day 1620, stands on the site of a 15th century Franciscan Friary. It has a fine collection of 17th century Scottish monuments and a rich musical tradition. You can also view the National Covenant, adopted and signed here in 1638. There are many fascinating tales and ghost stories connected with this historic church. 1,400 covenanters were imprisoned in the kirkyard in 1679 for their beliefs, a sorry fact remembered by the martyrs' monument. Furthermore, there is the famous memorial to Greyfriar's Bobby, the devoted Skye Terrier owned by John Gray, a local police constable. When Gray died in 1858, Bobby loyally sat watch over his master's grave in this kirkyard for 14 years, until he himself died. Services include the only weekly Gaelic worship in this part of the country. Recitals and concerts are also staged throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Whittaker |
 Photo: Ariane Bromma |
 Photo: Anne |
 Photo: Chris Hartford |
 Photo: Colin Ryan |
 Photo: Jeni |
 Photo: Alan Islas |
 Photo: Graeme Mathieson |
 Photo: John McDermott |
 Photo: Peggy Keene |
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New Year First Footing |
City Centre Edinburgh United Kingdom +44 131 529 3914 http://www.edinburghshogmanay.... |
Hogmanay's New Year "First-Footing" started with the legacy of a tall, dark stranger appearing on the doorstep at midnight brandishing a lump of coal, which means good fortune for the new year. Since such a meeting was unlikely, locals started visiting each other's houses with food, coal and the odd alcoholic beverage for a party. Today the celebration culminates at "the bells" at midnight with a fireworks display over the Edinburgh Castle. There is also a program of events on New Year's Day, including a "Loony Dook" plunge into the Forth, a Triathlon, and street theatre. See website for yearly details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ed Tarwinski |
 Photo: Andrew Moir |
 Photo: Janie Mehew |
 Photo: Iain K-N |
 Photo: Nick Beese |
 Photo: Garth W Hulbert |
 Photo: booksfromboxes |
 Photo: George Rispin |
 Photo: Helen Wright |
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 Photo: Su Perera |
 Photo: Craig Knott |
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 Photo: porrence |
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 Photo: Rain Dog |
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 Photo: Karl McCabe |
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 Photo: Laura Gillespie |
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Tenements to view |
142-146 Canongate The Royal Mile Edinburgh EH8 8DD United Kingdom +44 131 529 4143 |
Huntly House comprises three tenements that were amalgamated in 1570. It was dubbed "The Speaking House" by a Victorian antiquarian, in reference to the Latin inscriptions on its facade. Informative displays inside tell the history of Edinburgh, from prehistoric times through to the nineteenth century. Visitors are able to see collections of colourful shop signs, pottery and Edinburgh silver and glass. The tenements themselves are the real attractions here. They are laid out as they were before the Scotland-England Union - the cramped living spaces are startling. Check for details of temporary exhibitions of art and artefacts. Admission: is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Reformation regalia |
43-45 High Street Edinburgh EH29 9 United Kingdom +44 131 556 9579 / +44 131 556 2647 |
It's not certain that John Knox, the 16th century Reformation leader, actually died here - but he might have, so there's a museum inside this 15th century house dedicated to all things Reformatory. Find out all about John Knox's concerns about Catholicism and his inimitable way of dealing with such qualms. The subject matter is such that the museum can get quite heavy-going, but even a little persistence is richly rewarded by insights into this area of Scottish history. Particularly interesting is an audio re-enactment of Knox's debate with the Catholic Mary, Queen of Scots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lildebbie_77 |
 Photo: Jenni Sophia Fuchs |
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 Literary history |
Lady Stair's Close, Lawnmarket Edinburgh EH1 2PA United Kingdom +44 131 529 4901 |
This house is named after the gorgeous but foulmouthed heroine of Sir Walter Scott's My Aunt Margaret's Mirror. Built in the 1620s, the house now houses a museum celebrating the Scottish writers Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson. The collection consists mainly of locks of hair, paintings and various literary scripts. It is the painting, Parliament Square and Public Characters of Edinburgh, hung in the Burns Room that is really worth a look. Admission: is free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Myers |
 Photo: Darjeeling Wanderer |
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16th century chapel |
41 Cowgate Edinburgh EH1 1JR United Kingdom +44 131 220 1450 |
This 16th century chapel has the only surviving pre-reformation stained glass in Scotland left "in situ". The glass is in four brilliantly colored heraldic roundels on the south wall. The chapel was built by Maichale MacQueen and was later bequeathed to the Hammermen, a guild of metalworkers, who then adorned the space with their work. This wonderful building has been recently restored and is now owned by the Scottish Reformation Society. It plays occasional host to concerts—call for the latest details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fandabidozi nostalgia trip |
42 High Street Edinburgh EH29 9 United Kingdom +44 131 529 4142 |
This is bound to put a smile on your face and kids will love it. Toys, games, books, memorabilia and countless other objects are crammed into the four fandabidozi floors. It has come a long way since its foundation in 1955 - there are displays charting the childhood experience down the ages, space to play and themed temporary exhibitions. Some of the pieces are relatively recent, so the visit can be a nostalgia trip too. Mementoes are on sale in the shop, so you can play away at home. Admission: is free to minors and majors. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: eris radcliff |
 Photo: Claire Louise Weale |
 Photo: Chia-Yi Lin |
 Photo: Karen Muskett |
 Photo: Trela Sexton |
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Hot stuff |
Lauriston Place Edinburgh EH3 9DE United Kingdom +44 131 228 2401 |
This impressive red sandstone building and former Victorian Fire House hosts a fascinating museum, that charts the history of the oldest fire brigade in Britain. The impressive collection includes old fireman's uniforms, equipment, steam appliances, memorabilia and fire engines dating from 1808. A visit can be arranged by prior arrangement through the Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade Headquarters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chris Merlo |
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National Museum of Scotland |
Chambers Street City of Edinburgh EH1 1JF United Kingdom +44 131 247 4422 http://www.nms.ac.uk/ |
Next door to the Royal Museum, the stunning new Museum of Scotland (opened 1998) details the history of the Scottish people. From the beginning of time through present day, the history of Scotland is explained through galleries and displays in a wonderful, informative exhibition. Wander through the halls and wonder at the fossils, the ancient jewelery and artifacts. Travel back in time to the industrial revolution and the Scottish position in the British Empire. Marvel at the technological advances that have taken Scotland to modernity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Chiou |
 Photo: Ruuy Lestrade |
 Photo: Heather Kennedy |
 Photo: Roselea |
 Photo: Jim Forest |
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Miles of manuscripts, microform and maps |
George IV Bridge Edinburgh EH1 1EW United Kingdom +44 131 226 4531 http://www.nls.uk/ |
This imposing neo-classical building on George IV Bridge (near Greyfriars Kirk) houses the national collection of books and archive documents. It has over seven million books to choose from and the auspicious air of the learned reading rooms to savour. You can pour over manuscripts, microform and an impressive map collection that includes a 14th century ovoid map of the world. There are changing historical exhibitions, where the library reveals some of its finest literary treasures - for example, they own the last letter ever written by Mary Queen of Scots. Call for current exhibition details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lee Gardner |
 Photo: itsjustkate |
 Photo: einszwodrei |
 Photo: einszwodrei |
 Photo: Hannah Sasser |
 Photo: kaytethinks |
 Photo: Colin Paton |
 Photo: sawa kitamura |
 Photo: Paige McGeorge |
 Photo: Kenny Liu |
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 Photo: Rob Hurt |
 Photo: A. Wygant |
 Photo: jenny organa |
 Photo: Estonian Embassy in London |
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Military might |
Castlehill Edinburgh EH1 2NG United Kingdom +44 131 225 7534 http://www.nms.ac.uk/services/ |
This Museum boasts 400 years of Scottish military history laid out in a refurbished area of Edinburgh Castle. Six new galleries have been added to the original collection, exploring themes including A Nation in Arms, Tools of the Trade and The Highlander Soldier. Don't be put off by the idea that it's only for those with specific interests - it's a fascinating place, telling the story of the Scottish experience at war and in peace. There are many items to look at and find out about: swords, uniforms of all descriptions and all sorts of other war paraphernalia. Admission: adults £7; senior citizens and children £2. Access to this area is included in the general ticket to the castle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: orclimber |
 Photo: orclimber |
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Parliament House |
Parliament Square City of Edinburgh United Kingdom |
This building was the seat of Scottish Government until 1707 when the Act of Union brought together the governments of England and Scotland. Built in 1632-39, it now accommodates the superior courts of Scotland, the High Court of Justiciary and the Court of Session. It is well worth a visit to see the black tin notary boxes in use, the fine hammer beam roof and the be-wigged and robed advocates pacing the great hall. There are also fine portraits by Raeburn and other major Scottish artists. Access to the marvelous Signet Library upstairs is by written request only, as it is in daily use. Address enquiries to: The Librarian, Signet Library, Parliament House, and Parliament Square, Edinburgh. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kal TraumaQueen |
 Photo: Ben |
 Photo: Gordon McKinlay |
 Photo: Karen Rogers |
 Photo: Karen Rogers |
 Photo: Amy Watts |
 Photo: Amy Watts |
 Photo: Gordon McKinlay |
 Photo: Alistair Wilkie |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: © Rick Boles |
 Photo: © Rick Boles |
 Photo: Andrew Short |
 Photo: Kyle MacLean |
 Photo: Laura Wei |
 Photo: daniellelouisesatche |
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Edinburgh's tale |
163 Canongate Edinburgh EH8 8BN United Kingdom +44 131 529 4057 |
Discover the story of Edinburgh life as it has evolved through the 19th and 20th centuries. Smell the sweat of hard labor and taste the toil, with the help of sights, sounds and evocative odors. Follow the displays, which document the lives of common folk in the organisation of work, improvements in health and changes in leisure time. Step into various scenes, including depictions of workshops, a pub, prison cells, a 1940s kitchen and a fishwife. Read the people's stories in the guidebook and take it home as a sobering reminder that things have been worse! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lyn fletcher |
 Photo: moodytang_hk |
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A morbid affair |
Nicholson Street 18 Nicholson Street Edinburgh EH8 9DH United Kingdom +44 131 527 1649 |
Disease, infections and deformities this museum is ideal for the pathology student or morbid enthusiast. The pickled specimens are housed in the wonderful Playfair Hall and cutting-edge Victorian medical establishment - the Royal College of Surgeons. Visits are only possible on guided tours, which must be booked in advance for groups of at least 10. This interesting experience is not for the faint - hearted; there's enough here to give an over-active imagination nightmares for weeks! . Review © 2007, Wcities |
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On the beat |
188 High Street Edinburgh EH1 1QS United Kingdom +44 131 226 6966 http://www.lbp.police.uk/about... |
This information center allows visitors to dip into some interesting information and historical details about policing in Scotland's capital. There are also a few gruesome exhibits to fire the imagination, including the skin of the executed serial killer William Burke. If you need to report a crime, enquire about lost property or fancy a chat with a police officer this is the place to visit. Pick up a leaflet on various topics including driving in Scotland, crime prevention and maps of the city. During the festival, the Lothian and Borders police Pipe Band march along Princes Street at 11a before dropping in to the center to play a few tunes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 A walk in the park |
Princes Street Edinburgh EH2 2YJ United Kingdom |
The grounds of Princes Street Gardens stretch to the foot of Castle Rock, to the West End of the city and eastwards to Waverley Station. Dissected by the Mound, which houses the Royal Scottish Academy and the National Gallery of Scotland, they make a wonderful green spot in the valley between the Old and New Town. Permanently saved from commercial development by an Act of Parliament in 1816, the park was completed in 1830 after the Nor' Loch was drained. Today it is a favorite area for a stroll and a verdant short-cut to the Castle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M Grant |
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 Photo: Ailsa Partridge |
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Victorian display |
Chambers Street Edinburgh EH1 1JF United Kingdom +44 131 225 7534 http://www.nms.ac.uk/royal/ |
The Royal Museum is a huge and wondrous "bird-cage" building in the Victorian mold. Thirty-six galleries host exhibitions covering a whole host of topics, from the natural world—palaeontology, geology etc—to technology and science. Admire the oldest steam engine in the world and marvel at whale skeletons. Children in particular will be drawn to the weird and wonderful specimens in jars. Art from the Orient and north Mediterranean is also on display, including pieces from Korea and ancient Egypt. Next door is the recently opened Museum of Scotland, which chronicles the history of the Scots. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marc Brubaker |
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