Sunday, April 24, 2011

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse


The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence in Scotland of Her Majesty The Queen, stands at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile against the spectacular backdrop of Arthur's Seat. This fine baroque palace is closely associated with Scotland's rich history.

The Palace is perhaps best known as the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and as the setting for many of the dramatic episodes in her turbulent reign. Mary was married at Holyroodhouse and witnessed the brutal killing of her secretary Rizzio by her jealous second husband, Lord Darnley, in her private apartments. The Palace briefly served as the headquarters of Bonnie Prince Charlie during the 1745 uprising.

Today the State Apartments are used regularly by The Queen and other members of the Royal Family for State ceremonies and official entertaining.

Find out more about the history of the Palace of Holyroodhouse and how it is used today on theBritish Monarchy Website








Mary, Queen of Scots' Bedchamber, photographer: Peter Smith




Holyrood Abbey, photographer: Shannon Tofts