The Old Town and New Town of Edinburgh

　　   Since the 15th century, Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland. Currently, the city consists of two parts: an Old Town characterized mainly by medieval fortress-style architecture, and a New Town developed from the 18th century featuring neoclassical forms, which has had a broad influence on European urban architecture. Both of these historic districts contain many important buildings whose styles are both harmonious and contrasting, giving the city its unique charm.

　　   When comparing the irregular medieval layout of the Old Town with the geometric planning of the New Town, parks serve as a key connecting element. Two main thoroughfares define the city’s layout: first, the High Street, which follows the crest of the ridge and links the two poles of the Old Town: the Esplanade of the Castle and the site of the former St Giles' Cathedral and Palace. Second, Princes Street, which runs parallel to but is longer than the High Street, follows a valley and forms the boundary of the New Town, offering excellent views of the Old Town.

　　   The entire city of Edinburgh is built from stone. Its castle on the crag, the neo-Gothic spires of St John's Church, and the tower of St Giles' Cathedral dominate the urban landscape extending into the New Town. The classical and neoclassical buildings are arranged with elegance and remarkable coherence. In the Old Town, several buildings restored by Sir Patrick Geddes in the late 19th century still survive.

　　   Foreign name: Old and New Towns of Edinburgh Reason to visit: One of the cities with the most influence on European urban architecture Continent: Europe【Europe】 Country/Region: Britain[Britain] Province/State: Edinburgh [Edinburgh] City: Edinburgh [Edinburgh]