Not so lost in Edinburgh

When we last left our intrepid traveler - that would be me - I had spent the better part of an afternoon wandering the back streets of Edinburgh, Scotland trying to find my way back to The Royal Mile. Luckily for me, my next day in Edinburgh I  would have an ace guide - my daughter, who was studying at The University of Edinburgh at the time.  We started our day at an incredibly interesting place, Holyroodhouse Palace.
(Disclaimer - I actually like history and historical places.)

One of the most famous residents of the palace was Mary, Queen of Scots. She married both her husbands there. You can also see the spot where her secretary and supposed lover, David Rizzio was murdered before her eyes.

Holyroodhouse  is the official residence of Her Majesty, The Queen while she is in Scotland. Apparently, she feels more at home at Balmoral so she is usually only in residence from the last week of June through the beginning of July. Her visit is mostly ceremonial with parades and key ceremonies.

The palace was actually built as an abbey in 1128 and you can visit the ruins of the abbey behind the palace. 

Across the street from Holyroodhouse Palace is the very unique Scottish Parliament building designed by one of the world's premier architects, spaniard Enric Miralles. You can visit the building, but unfortunately it was closed to visitors the week that I was there.

We wandered up the Royal Mile and headed to the National Museum of Scotland. Dolly, the cloned sheep is on display ( she was cloned at the University of Edinburgh) along with Scottish race car driver Jackie Stewart's car.

One of the first Scottish flags on display

As long as only one hundred of us remain alive, we wil never on any condition be brought under English rule.

One of the cool things about the National Museum of Scotland is that it's free. And the other great thing about it is there is a rooftop patio with a beautiful view of the city.

Scotland is one of my favorite countries !. The people are warm and friendly,  the scenery is gorgeous (and I haven't even been to the Highlands yet) and there is history beyond measure. I would go again and again!

I'm linking up with www.walkingontravels.com/2014/06/24/rainforest-adventures-discovery-zoo/ so pop on over to check it out!