Experience the gripping narrative of Edinburgh Castle's tumultuous past at this immersive exhibition in the Argyle Tower. Dynamic animations, projections, and a reconstructed medieval trebuchet bring the fortress's clashes for dominion between Scots and English to life. Marvel at artifacts unearthed within the grounds, offering tangible connections to the wars of independence.

Completed in 1511 under King James IV, the magnificent Great Hall boasts one of Britain's finest medieval wooden roofs, with colossal beams resting on intricately carved stones bearing thistle motifs. Hosting grand events for royalty, its splendor was short-lived for King James IV, who died at the 1513 Battle of Flodden, and was converted to a barracks and hospital by the army in the 17th century.

The elegant Royal Palace offers a glimpse into the lives of Scottish royalty who once called Edinburgh Castle home. Wander through lavish chambers adorned with exquisite tapestries and furnishings. Marvel at the grandeur of the Crown Room, displaying the Honors of Scotland - the nation's crown jewels. The palace's rich history and sumptuous interiors invite you to experience Scottish royal splendor.

Edinburgh Castle's oldest building, St Margaret's Chapel, has welcomed visitors for centuries. Built around 1130 by King David I to honor his mother, the charitable Queen Margaret, its original ornate arches now contrast with more recent stained glass. Maintained with flowers by St Margaret’s Chapel Guild, this tranquil chapel hosts weddings and baptisms, remaining a timeless sanctuary.

This formidable six-tonne siege cannon was gifted to King James II in 1457, capable of propelling gunstones over two miles. Named after its Belgian town of origin, Mons Meg saw action in sieges under James II and James IV before retiring in the mid-1500s. After 75 years in England, it returned to Edinburgh Castle in 1829, where it rests today near St Margaret’s Chapel.

Since 1861, the One o'clock Gun has provided vital timekeeping for ships in the Firth of Forth and is fired daily at 1pm from Edinburgh Castle. It can surprise Princes Street visitors below by drawing crowds for its dramatic boom. Originally a 64-pounder, the cannon was replaced in 2001 with a 105mm field gun by the Redcoat Café, continuing the historic tradition with a new modern artillery piece.

Once crucial to Edinburgh Castle's defense, the Half Moon Battery now serves as an iconic vista, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Though originally armed with James IV's bronze 'Seven Sisters' guns, it now features 18-pounder cannons from the Napoleonic era. The battery was built atop the ruins of medieval David's Tower, which fell during the 16th-century Lang Siege.

An ancient relic central to Scottish monarchs' coronations, the Stone of Destiny's origins remain obscure. Seized in 1296 by England's King Edward I, this revered stone was dramatically reclaimed by students in 1950 after centuries in Westminster Abbey. Returned to Scotland in 1996, the Stone of Destiny bears witness to the nation's storied past and today, resides at the Royal Palace.