Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament (opened in 2004) at the foot of the Royal Mile, opposite the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is one of the most controversial and fascinating buildings in the UK. Designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles (who died before its completion), it was meant to "grow out of the land" — a connection of architecture and Scottish landscape.
The Architecture
The building is an architectural statement: organic shapes, concrete, steel, granite, and oak. The facade is inspired by overturned boats (the Scottish maritime tradition), the windows by Henry Raeburn's painting "The Skating Minister." The construction costs exploded from an estimated £40 million to over £414 million — a scandal that kept the building under criticism for years. Today, it is largely recognized as an architectural masterpiece.
Visiting
- Guided Tours: Free 45-minute tours of the building, the Debating Chamber, and the Garden Lobby. Register in advance!
- Debate Days: When the parliament is in session (Wed–Thu during sitting periods), you can listen to the debates from the public gallery — free of charge. Scottish politics live.
- Exhibition: A permanent exhibition on the history of the Scottish Parliament — from its founding in 1235, through its dissolution in 1707, to its restoration in 1999.
