Vibrant hub of Scotland's culture and history
Category

Sightseeing

Message from Tartan Viking

The Grassmarket in Edinburgh is a lively hub of activity that exemplifies Scotland's culture and history. This vibrant area boasts grand old buildings and cobbled streets, and is today home to restaurants, shops, hotels, and bars. It's worth noting that it is also steeped in history and many secrets. For example, the name “Grassmarket” refers to the cattle and horse buying and selling that took place since 1477. During WWI, a bomb was dropped directly on the Grassmarket, killing 11 people, and today, visitors can take a look at a flagstone commemorating the event. Additionally, it was said that Robert Burns, the beloved Scottish poet, spent his last night in Edinburgh here back in 1791. Hollywood even chose the area for a movie filming site! Furthermore, two infamous murderers, Burke and Hare, once lingered in the shadows of Tanners Close near the Grassmarket. And back in the early 1900s, Italians began to populate the area, infusing the culture with authentic Italian flavors. Finally, Half-Hangit Maggie came to life here after she was wrongfully hanged in 1724, thus earning her nickname.

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