Edinburgh is admired all over the world for its old buildings, boasting as it does, a higher concentration of ancient structures than most European cities.
For anyone with a keen interest in history, a stroll through Scotland’s stunning capital is an absolute must.
Auld Reekie has an incredible number of ancient buildings – many of them erected more than 500 years ago.
Take a look through our photo gallery, featuring 11 of the oldest buildings in the city.
Take a look through our photo gallery, featuring 11 of the oldest buildings in the city.
9. Moubray House 1500s, High Street
Sharing the same nook of the High Street as John Knox House is an equally-ancient residence, Moubray House. It was built back in 1477 for a Mr Robert Moubray and was later used as a tavern and a bookshop. The esteemed writer Daniel Defoe resided here for a spell while he was editor of the Edinburgh Courant newspaper. The facade of Moubray House was rebuilt in the early 17th century, though parts of the interior are very much original. Photo: Third Party
Sometimes referred to as Merchiston Castle, this five-storey L-plan tower was built around 1454 by Alexander Napier, the second Laird of Merchiston. The building remained in the Napier family for several centuries and it is recorded that John Napier, the inventor of logarithms was born here in 1550. How appropriate then that the tower is now situated in the grounds of modern-day Napier University. The tower was built upon a rocky outcrop, which can still be seen on two sides of the building. Photo: Napier University