Greyfriars
Bobby
Greyfriars Bobby is remembered in this statue opposite Greyfriars
Kirk at the top of Candlemaker Row. In 1858 this faithful little Skye
terrier refused to leave his master's graveside and for the next 14
years, until his own death, was never far from the churchyard.
The
touching story of the dog's loyalty has spread throughout the world
and this memorial provides an ever-popular tourist photo opportunity.
Bobby now lies within Greyfriars himself.
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George
IV Bridge
George IV Bridge is the location of two of the
most important libraries in Scotland. The Central Public Library,
founded just over 100 years ago through the generosity of the industrialist,
Andrew Carnegie, has an extensive collection of books including
special sections on music and the fine arts.
The
Royal Museum of Scotland
The Royal Museum of Scotland is another important
building in nearby Chambers Street. The museum houses the national
collections of decorative arts from around the world, geology, archaeology,
natural history, technology and science. The building, which was
designed by Captain Francis Fowke of the Royal Engineers, is one
of the finest examples of Victorian architecture in Edinburgh.
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The National
Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland lies directly
across the street and was founded in 1682. With some 4,500,000 books
and a large collection of manuscripts, it is one of the largest
libraries in Britain.
The
Grassmarket
The Grassmarket has been an important focal point
of the Old Town since the 15th Century. The weekly livestock market
was held here from 1477 until 1911. It was also the site of regular
public hangings, and it was here that Burke and Hare, the notorious
grave robbers, plied their gruesome trade and searched for suitable
victims in and around the area's many public houses.
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