Mercat Cross
Address: High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1RF
The Mercat Cross is a historic landmark on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, originally dating back to medieval times. However, it has been moved and rebuilt a few times over the centuries. The current version was erected in 1866 and updated in 1885, near the site of the original. The word mercat is Scots for market, and the market cross marked the heart of the Old Town. It was an important part of the town, where public announcements were made. It is still used for certain traditional proclamations in modern times, such as the accession of a new monarch to the throne.
The Mercat Cross has a unique and intricate design, featuring an octagonal base, which is adorned with various coats of arms representing different places of significance. There is a small door built into the side, which leads to an internal staircase and upper platform. From this platform, officials would stand to deliver proclamations, announcements and public notices to the citizens in the market below. Rising from the centre, it has a tall stone column topped with the statue of a unicorn, which is the national animal of Scotland.
5 things to do at the Mercat Cross
- Walk around it and admire the 19th century architecture.
- View the different symbols and icons that adorn its walls, including carvings, coats of arms and inscriptions.
- Look up to the top of the column to see the unicorn holding a flag and shield.
- Explore nearby attractions on the Royal Mile, including the grand St Giles’ Cathedral, which stands just beside it.
- Join a tour with Mercat Tours, who use the Mercat Cross as the meeting point for a wide range of guided walks.
