Scotland
Scotland is a land of rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and rich history. As a traveler who loves history and art, you won't be disappointed by the abundance of museums, galleries, and historical sites throughout the country. 1. Edinburgh Castle: This historic fortress dominates the skyline of Edinburgh and has been a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries. You can tour the castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the One O'Clock Gun. 2. Stirling Castle: This impressive fortress is located in Stirling, a town in central Scotland. It was a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries and played a key role in many battles. You can tour the castle to see the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, and the Chapel Royal. 3. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Located in Glasgow, this museum houses one of the finest collections of art and artifacts in Scotland. You can see works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh, as well as Scottish art and history exhibits. 4. Culloden Battlefield: This site near Inverness marks the location of the final battle of the Jacobite rising of 1745. You can walk the battlefield and visit the interactive museum to learn about the battle and its impact on Scottish history. 5. Isle of Skye: This stunning island off the west coast of Scotland is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. You can hike in the rugged mountains, explore the picturesque villages, and see the famous Fairy Pools and Old Man of Storr rock formations.
Places I'm going to visit in Scotland
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, and it's impossible not to be swept up in the sense of grandeur and drama that pervades its streets. One of the must-visit destinations in Edinburgh is the Royal Mile, which runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along the way, you'll find a wealth of historic sites, including St. Giles' Cathedral, the Mercat Cross, and the Canongate Tolbooth. For me as a lover of gothic architecture, a visit to the Scott Monument is a must. This towering structure, located in Princes Street Gardens, is a tribute to the Scottish novelist Sir Walter Scott. The monument is adorned with intricate carvings and statues, and visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the city. Another gothic gem in Edinburgh is the Edinburgh Castle, which sits atop an extinct volcano in the heart of the city. The castle has been a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries, and its imposing walls and towers are a testament to its rich history. Finally, no trip to Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to the Greyfriars Kirkyard. This historic cemetery is home to some of the city's most notable figures, including Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his master's grave for 14 years. The kirkyard is also home to numerous gothic-style tombstones and monuments, making it a fascinating and eerie destination for lovers of history and architecture.