Old History

Until the late 18th century, Edinburgh consisted, almost exclusively, of what is now known as the Old Town (the area where you'll find the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket).The rock upon which Edinburgh Castle now stands is a natural stronghold, and Celtic tribes are believed to have used it as such during the first centuries of the first millennium. King Edwin of Northumbria is believed to have built the fort on the tactical stone and it was called Dun Eadain meaning 'Fortress-on-a-Hill' later to become either Edwin's Burgh or Eadain's Burgh, although there has been much debate as to whether this is actually true. However, a fledgling community slowly developed around the skirts of the protective walls. Taking its starting point from the Castle, the town then developed down the slope of the Castle Rock.


Modern History

The 20th century played its part in shaping the city Edinburgh is today. Slum dwellers were moved into new housing estates that now foster massive social problems. Following WWII, the city's cultural life blossomed, with the Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe first taking place in 1947. The University of Edinburgh established itself as a teaching and research centre of international importance in areas such as medicine, electronics and artificial intelligence. In response to this proposal a conservation movement sprang up, and in 1995 the Old and New Towns were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
In 1997, following the Labour Party's electoral win, a second referendum on a Scottish Parliament (the first, in 1979, was quashed by the then Labour government doing some dodgy sums) succeeded, with it convening for the first time in 1999. Although dogged with political problems and accusations of over-spending during its construction, the Scottish Parliament Building has come to be a respected.


New Developments

Edinburgh is always on the go with improving their city. The biggest development at this moment is the new tram lines. These new tram lines are expected to come into action in 2012. This integrated transport system will offer a reliable and frequent transport choice to Edinburgh’s growing population and business community, boosting the city’s standing as an international destination for tourism and business. Edinburgh’s tram network will help to reduce car journeys and ease congestion, providing environmental benefits through improved air quality.