197 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE
The Heart of Midlothian is a mosaic located outside St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh. The heart marks the location of the entrance to Edinburgh's Old Tolbooth which was demolished in 1817. Locals will often spit upon the heart as a sign of good luck.
Edinburgh, Scotland is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, and one of its most significant historical landmarks is the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic. Located on the Royal Mile, this unique and striking piece of art is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's past.
The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a large mosaic made up of multi-colored granite stones arranged in a pattern that depicts the heart of the city. It sits in the pavement outside the entrance to St Giles' Cathedral, one of the most famous and historic buildings in Edinburgh. The mosaic is a popular spot for tourists, and many visitors take photos of themselves standing on it or touching it for good luck.
The mosaic has a fascinating history that dates back to the 15th century when the Tolbooth, a prison and town hall, was built on the site. The Tolbooth was a place where criminals were held before being punished, and it was known for its harsh conditions. The Heart of Midlothian was a stone carving of a heart that was placed on the exterior wall of the Tolbooth, and it became a symbol of the prison and the city's justice system.
The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic was created in the 19th century as a replacement for the original heart carving. The mosaic was designed by John Lessels, an architect who worked on many important buildings in Edinburgh, and it was installed in 1875. The mosaic was a way to honor the history of the Tolbooth and the heart carving, which had been removed when the building was demolished in the 19th century.
The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a powerful symbol of Edinburgh's past, and it is a reminder of the city's history as a place of justice and punishment. The mosaic is also a testament to the creativity and skill of Scottish artists and architects. Visitors to the mosaic can take a moment to reflect on the city's past and appreciate the beauty of this unique piece of art.
The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is also surrounded by other historical landmarks, including St Giles' Cathedral, which is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The Royal Mile, where the mosaic is located, is also home to many other historic buildings, museums, and attractions. Visitors can take a walking tour of the area to learn more about Edinburgh's history and culture.
In conclusion, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a must-visit for anyone interested in Edinburgh's rich history and culture. It is a powerful symbol of the city's past, and it is a beautiful piece of art that showcases the talent and creativity of Scottish artists and architects. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh.
The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Edinburgh, Scotland. This iconic landmark is located on the Royal Mile, in the heart of the city's historic Old Town. The mosaic is a unique representation of the heart of Edinburgh and has become a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
While visiting the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, there are many other interesting places to see and things to do in the surrounding area. Here are some of the top suggestions:
1. Visit Edinburgh Castle: Located at the top of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress that has been a royal residence and military stronghold for over 1000 years. It offers stunning views of the city and is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the famous One o'clock Gun.
2. Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens: This beautiful public park is located just a short walk from the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are home to several monuments, including the Scott Monument and the Ross Fountain.
3. Discover the history of the Royal Mile: The Royal Mile is a historic street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. Along the way, you can explore a variety of historic landmarks, including St. Giles' Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament, and the Museum of Edinburgh.
4. Experience the vibrant nightlife: Edinburgh is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. From traditional Scottish pubs to trendy cocktail bars, there is something for everyone.
5. Enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine: Scotland is famous for its hearty and delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of traditional Scottish restaurants and cafes in the area around the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic. Try haggis, neeps and tatties, Cullen skink or a classic Scottish breakfast.
6. Attend a cultural event: Edinburgh is home to a wide variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Edinburgh International Festival, and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Check out the events calendar to see what's on during your visit.
Overall, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a great starting point for exploring all that Edinburgh has to offer. From historic landmarks to vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. So come and explore Edinburgh and discover all the amazing things it has to offer.
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
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| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
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