Saint Giles Cathedral | Edinburgh

St. Giles' Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is one of the most iconic and historic buildings in Edinburgh, Scotland. Situated at the top of the Royal Mile, it has been a place of Christian worship for over 900 years and is closely tied to the history of the city and the Scottish Reformation. The cathedral is a key feature of Edinburgh's Old Town and remains an important symbol of the city's religious and cultural life.

History and Origins

Foundation and Early History:

• St. Giles' Cathedral was originally founded in 1124 as a parish church, with its dedication to St. Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh. The church was built to serve the growing population of the medieval city and has been a place of worship ever since.
• The site of St. Giles' is associated with a monastic foundation, with the original building likely serving as both a place of prayer and a centre for the monastic community. The church's early role in Edinburgh's religious life is reflected in its importance as a spiritual centre for centuries.

Development through the Ages:

• Over the centuries, St. Giles' Cathedral underwent multiple expansions and renovations, resulting in the mix of architectural styles seen today. During the 14th century, the cathedral was significantly rebuilt after a fire destroyed much of the original structure. The central tower was added in the 15th century and remains a prominent feature of the cathedral’s skyline.
• By the 16th century, the cathedral became a focal point during the period of the Scottish Reformation. In 1560, the Protestant Reformation, led by John Knox, led to significant changes in Scotland’s religious landscape, and St. Giles’ became a Presbyterian church, abandoning many Catholic practices and symbols.

Role in the Scottish Reformation:

• St. Giles’ Cathedral played a central role during the Scottish Reformation, particularly as the heart of the Protestant movement in Edinburgh. John Knox, a leading figure in the Reformation and the founder of the Church of Scotland, preached at St. Giles’ and helped establish it as the center of the Presbyterian faith.
• The Reformation led to the destruction of many Catholic relics and symbols in the cathedral, but it also gave rise to the cathedral’s distinctive Presbyterian character. The cathedral has remained a place of Presbyterian worship ever since, despite its status as a cathedral.

The Cathedral Today:

• Today, St. Giles' Cathedral is an active church, but it also serves as a major tourist attraction and visitor center, drawing thousands of visitors each year. It remains the mother church of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh and continues to be used for religious services, special events, and concerts.

Architecture

St. Giles’ Cathedral is renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture, though it also incorporates elements of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Victorian styles. Some of the key architectural features include:

The Central Tower:

• One of the most recognizable features of St. Giles’ Cathedral is its central tower, which rises above the city and is topped by a distinctive crown spire, often referred to as the "crown of Edinburgh". This tower is an important landmark on the Edinburgh skyline.
• The crown spire was added in the late 15th century and is a symbol of Edinburgh's medieval character. The tower's design reflects the church's transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.

The Nave and Choir:

• The cathedral’s nave is the central aisle where congregational seating is found. The choir is where the clergy and choirs gather for services. Both spaces are vaulted and filled with impressive stonework, with stained-glass windows that tell stories from the Bible and the cathedral’s history.
• The nave also contains several important memorials and monuments to notable Scots, including memorials to various Scottish saints and figures from the church's history.

The Thistle Chapel:

• One of the most celebrated parts of St. Giles' Cathedral is the Thistle Chapel, located on the south side of the cathedral. This small chapel was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer and built between 1911 and 1913. It is dedicated to the Order of the Thistle, which is Scotland’s highest order of chivalry.
• The chapel’s interior is intricately carved and features wooden seats for the knights of the order, along with beautiful stained-glass windows. The chapel is often described as one of the finest examples of Arts and Crafts-style craftsmanship in Scotland.

Stained Glass and Decorations:

• The cathedral is home to numerous stained-glass windows, many of which depict scenes from the Bible, important moments in Scottish history, or key figures in the church. These windows have been added over several centuries, with notable examples dating from the 16th century through to the Victorian period.
• In addition to the stained glass, the cathedral is decorated with carvings, woodwork, and tapestries, some of which date back to the Reformation period.

Notable Features and Areas

The John Knox Memorial:

• One of the most important figures in the history of St. Giles’ Cathedral is John Knox, the leader of the Scottish Reformation. A memorial to Knox stands in the cathedral, commemorating his significant influence on the church and Scotland’s transition to Protestantism.

The Organ:

• The cathedral’s organ is a stunning and powerful instrument that dates back to the 19th century. It is used during services, special events, and concerts, and it plays a central role in the cathedral’s music ministry.

The Oldest Part: The Crypt:

• Beneath the cathedral lies the crypt, which is one of the oldest surviving parts of the building. The crypt houses the graves of several important individuals, including Scottish nobles and church figures, and is a significant feature of the cathedral's medieval heritage.

Cultural and Religious Importance

A Center of Worship:

• St. Giles' Cathedral continues to be an active place of worship, serving as the mother church for the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh. Services are held regularly, including Sunday services, and special events such as weddings, baptisms, and funerals take place at the cathedral.

Concerts and Cultural Events:

• Due to its stunning acoustics, St. Giles’ Cathedral hosts a wide range of cultural events, including classical concerts, organ recitals, and festivals. It is particularly well-known for hosting events during the Edinburgh Festival, one of the world's largest cultural festivals, which brings a global audience to the city each summer.

Tourist Attraction:

• St. Giles' Cathedral is one of the most visited attractions in Edinburgh, drawing thousands of tourists each year. Visitors come not only to admire its architectural beauty but also to learn about its significant role in Scottish history and religious life. The cathedral also provides information and resources for those wishing to learn more about the city's history and the role of the church in Scotland.

Symbol of Scottish Identity:

• St. Giles' Cathedral is more than just a religious building; it is a symbol of Scotland’s identity. As a key site in the Scottish Reformation, it represents the shift from Catholicism to Protestantism and the development of the Presbyterian Church. The cathedral’s long history reflects the complex and often turbulent religious history of Scotland.

Visitor Experience

• Visitors to St. Giles' Cathedral can take a guided or self-guided tour to explore its stunning architecture, art, and history. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs related to the cathedral and its long history.
• The cathedral often holds special events and services that visitors are welcome to attend, including concerts, services during the Christmas and Easter seasons, and regular Sunday worship.

Conclusion

St. Giles' Cathedral is one of Edinburgh's most beloved and historically significant landmarks. With its stunning Gothic architecture, rich history, and connection to Scotland’s religious and political past, it offers a unique window into the city's past and present. Whether you're visiting for its architecture, its role in the Reformation, or simply to enjoy a moment of reflection, St. Giles’ Cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in Edinburgh’s cultural heritage.