What is recorded here

Edinburgh Castle has stood on Castle Rock since the 11th century, surviving twenty-six recorded sieges and serving as a royal residence, prison, mint and military fortress. St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, still holds within the castle walls, while the Honours of Scotland rest nearby under guard. Two million people climb the rock each year to walk the same stones where kings lived and soldiers bled, proving the castle remains alive rather than merely remembered.

Scotland's National Record of the Historic Environment records Edinburgh Castle as Castle (medieval). The official map says its point is accurate as follows: NGR given to the nearest 1m. The record does not by itself mean that the public may enter the place.

Edinburgh Castle was originally built by the Kingdom of Scotland in the 12th century, with significant fortifications added over subsequent centuries, including by King David I. It is important as a historic military stronghold, royal residence, and a symbol of Scottish national identity.

The historic-place record does not grant public access. Check current conditions and ownership before entering land or a building.