We had a great visit to Holyroodhouse Palace and the Ruins of Holyrood Abbey. The castle is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland but she only spends about a week each year at Holyrood. The rest of her time in Scotland is spend at her favorite, Balmoral Castle. Would love to visit Balmoral but unfortunately it’s closed this time of year.
Holyroodhouse Palace is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile and is next to the very modern Scottish Parliament Building. There has been a royal presence at Holyroodhouse since 1126 which is when the Abbey was built by King David I of Scotland. The Royal apartments are filled with many beautiful paintings, tapestries, period furniture and other works of art.
I had heard the story about Mary Queen of Scots jealous 2nd husband killing her Italian male secretary at the Palace so it was weird to see the very spot he was murdered . He was stabbed over 50 times ( how “Psycho” of her husband). Mary was held with a pistol pointed at her while she witnessed the entire event. Always some kind of drama with the monarchy.
Photography is not allowed in the palace but I was able to take a few photos around the palace and at the Abbey. It was grey with snow flurries on and off all day. Hoping for a little sunshine tomorrow for our drive to the Highlands.
Entrance to Holyrood Palace
At the Entrance of Holyrood Palace
The Quadrangle at Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace
Crosses at Holyrood Palace
Lamp at Holyrood
Ruins of Holyrood Abbey
Ruins of Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Abbey Ruins
Gorgeous roof at the Ruins
Looking out from the Ruins
Displaced Beachbums 