Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel

Nestled against hills and near water, Rosslyn Chapel boasts a serene setting. Its interior is adorned with exquisite carvings, many of which feature mysterious symbols. Even before being featured in a novel, it earned the nickname “the Chapel of Codes,” drawing the attention of symbologists and religious scholars alike. Since becoming the setting where secrets are revealed in the movie *The Da Vinci Code*, it has become one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions.

Rosslyn Chapel is located in the town of Roslin, seven miles south of Edinburgh. It was built by the Knights Templar in 1446 and has a history of over 500 years. Although the Gothic-style chapel is only 21 meters long and less than 11 meters wide, its walls and ceiling are covered with a wealth of carved and painted symbols representing Freemasonry, the Knights Templar, Judaism, Christianity, as well as several Islamic motifs. The finely sculpted stone pillars inside have inspired interpretations involving Christian, Norse, and Celtic mythology, including a supposed “death mask” of the legendary Robert the Bruce. Among the carvings are also dragons, demons, and 100 “green men.” Though the abundance of sculptures may seem chaotic, each has its own meaning and is closely related to the symbols nearby.

In addition to symbols from paganism, Christianity, Judaism, Freemasonry, and even satanic cults, Rosslyn Chapel also houses a wealth of treasures and codes related to the history of the St. Clair family itself. These peculiar carvings provide direct research material for religious historians and leave an invaluable legacy for art history enthusiasts.

Rosslyn Chapel

Why Go: The Most Mysterious Chapel in Edinburgh

Continent: Europe【Europe】

Country/Region: Britain[Britain]

Province/State: Edinburgh [Edinburgh]

City: Edinburgh [Edinburgh]