The National Monument of Scotland was a failed attempt at building a full-scale copy of the Parthenon that was designed to commemorate Scottish soldiers. To this day, only 12 columns have been completed after work was stopped due to funding issues in 1829. The monument was originally designed to be a memorial to honor Scottish soldiers who lost their lives in the Napoleonic Wars.
Even without the interesting history of the unfinished building, a visit to the monument is still impressive with the beautiful sight of the massive columns perched atop Calton Hill, and the views of the cityscape beyond.
Over the years, many proposals have been made to complete the project, including completion as a monument to Queen Victoria and as a new site of the Scottish National Gallery. Another suggestion was transforming the space into a Scottish Parliament building, but none of these ideas was pursued and the monument remains unfinished to this day.
National Monument of Scotland in Edinburgh - one of the highlights of 11 Iconic Buildings and Places in Edinburgh (Read all about Edinburgh here)
Highlights of the National Monument of Scotland
Even though some critics say the monument is considered a massive failure, the magnitude of the standing columns is awe-inspiring and worth the visit. The lintels that topped the columns were so large that they had to be transported by 70 men and 12 horses to their current locations. History enthusiasts will be amazed by the rich history of the time between preliminary plans and when construction suddenly stopped. For instance,a political battle of control of the project between the Whigs and Tories that ultimately delayed the project. Sitting atop the front steps of the structure, you’ll have a picturesque view of the city of Edinburgh and the sea beyond. The view is particularly beautiful if you’re able to visit at sunset to see the vibrant colors in the sky reflecting on the sea. Today, almost 200 years later, the monument is an important part of Calton Hill despite its unfinished construction.
History Of The National Monument of Scotland
The plan for a monument in Edinburgh to honor Scottish soldiers that were lost in the Napoleonic Wars began in 1816. The government stipulated that public funding would not be available for the project. A competition left 2 main plans for the monument, including a church built in the style of the Parthenon, which was supported by the Tories, and a plan for the full-scale replica of the Parthenon, which was preferred by the Whigs. The Parthenon idea was originally chosen, but after repeated attacks by the Whigs, the latter was ultimately decided to be better suited with its intellectual associations and grandeur. In 1822, construction plans finally began. Even though funding fell severely short, construction on the monument began in 1826. The exquisite but expensive craftsmanship continued until funds ran out in 1829, and the project ended with only 12 columns, the architrave, and a small portion of stylobate completed.
Good to know about the National Monument of Scotland
You can find the National Monument of Scotland located on Calton Hill, just off of Leith Street on Greenside Row. Please note that a visit to the monument does require a walk up the hill. The path is paved but is a little steep and may not be suited to all visitors. Be sure to bring your camera, as you’re likely to get some fantastic photos of the monument and surrounding landscape. While exploring Calton Hill, you can see Dougald Steward Monument, the Playfair Monument, the Monument to Scottish Parliament and the Nelson Monument. When you’ve seen all the monuments on Calton Hill, you may enjoy catching a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse or visiting a peaceful 17th-century walled garden and green space at Dunbars Close to relax and take in the scenery.
National Monument of Scotland in Edinburgh
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