Edinburgh Castle History

1574 up to 1578

Following The Lang Siege, Edinburgh Castle is rebuilt. The distinctive Half-Moon Battery along with the Portcullis Gate are also constructed during this time to reinforce the castle's defences.

1615 up to 1617

The Palace block is extensively renovated for James VI’s visit to his birthplace for his 50th anniversary as king of Scots. It had not been used by Royalty since The Lang Siege ended in 1578. Even after the rebuilding work is completed, King James prefers to spend his nights at Holyrood Palace rather than the castle.

1633

The day before the coronation of King Charles I of Scotland, he holds a ceremonious feast in the Great Hall before spending the night in the castle. It is the only time Charles visits the castle and he would be the last Monarch to sleep there.

1650

In May Oliver Cromwell invades Scotland, after a successful battle at Dunbar he besieges the castle for three months. The then governer of the castle Colonel Walter Dundas, surrenders to Cromwell and switches sides.

1651 up to 1660

In order to save The Honours of Scotland (Crown, Sword and Sceptre) from the clutches of Cromwell, they are buried in a coastal church near Stonehaven in the north east of Scotland.

Written by Shaun Flanagan