Why is edinburgh called athens of the north

These diagonal corners were deemed too fussy, and a simple axial grid was settled upon. He designed a plan which was distinguished by elegant views, classical order and plenty of light. Unlike the organic, granite streets of the Old Town, Craig used white sandstone to realise a structured gridiron plan. The plan was highly sensitive to the political mood. In light of Jacobite rebellions and a new era of civic Hanoverian British patriotism, Edinburgh was eager to prove its loyalty to the British monarchs.

This marked the completion of the First New Town. The New Town grew together with the Scottish Enlightenment, becoming a centre for scientific enquiry and philosophical debate. The National Monument was never completed. Further schemes were realised in the 19th century, although the Third New Town was never fully completed. Monuments were erected on Calton Hill, and in , building started on the Scottish National Monument, in memory of the soldiers killed in the Napoleonic wars.

Yet when funds ran out in , work was stopped and has never been completed. Edinburgh Castle is an old fort located on Castle Rock. The Palace of Holyroodhouse is one of Scotland's jewels of classical architecture, with an impressive array of baroque decoration in its interior. National Monument Adjacent to the Nelson Monument, the National Monument was designed in honour of the soldiers who lost their lives in the Napoleonic Wars.

Nelson Monument Built between and , Nelson Monument is a commemorative tower in honour of Vice Admiral Nelson after his victory and death at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Beltane Fire Festival On the night of the 30 April thousands of people gather on Calton Hill to celebrate one of the most important festivals of the city , the Beltane Fire Festival. Location East end of Princes Street. Edinburgh Castle Palace of Holyroodhouse. Magnificent Edinburgh. Facebook Twitter Pinterest. Property Search For sale. To rent. Home values. Location e. Oxford or NW3. Type Show all Houses Flats.