Holyrood Palace History: Timeline, Key Events, Evolution

Legend has it David I saw a glowing cross between a stag’s antlers and founded Holyrood Abbey in 1128. It quickly became a spiritual and political powerhouse, laying the groundwork for centuries of royal drama.

Between 1501 and 1505, James IV built a luxurious palace beside Holyrood Abbey, trading the cold Edinburgh castle life for royal comfort. It was a wedding gift to himself ahead of marrying Margaret Tudor, Henry VIII’s sister, in 1503.

James V went all out between 1528 and 1536, building a bold tower packed with royal apartments and stronger fortifications. That very James V Tower still stands today and once housed none other than Mary, Queen of Scots.

From 1561 to 1567, Mary, Queen of Scots lived at Holyroodhouse. But forget fairy tales—her secretary Rizzio was murdered in her chambers by jealous nobles, with her husband’s help. The palace saw politics, betrayal and real heartbreak.

Cromwell’s forces moved into Holyroodhouse in 1650 and trashed it during their stay. A fire broke out that same year, leaving the palace in ruins. It sat forgotten and damaged as politics in Scotland stayed in turmoil too.

Holyroodhouse got a royal facelift from 1671 to 1678. Charles II brought in Sir William Bruce who went full Baroque, designing lush interiors and grand facades. The palace finally became Scotland’s official home for kings and queens.

Holyroodhouse played host to Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745. It became his command center during the Jacobite uprising, but the royal dynasty still fizzled out. Still, his brief stay is one of the palace’s most famous chapters.

In 1822, King George IV became the first reigning monarch since Charles II to stay at Holyroodhouse. His lavish visit, complete with Highland flair, brought royal attention back to the palace, re-establishing its significance for national events.

During Queen Victoria’s reign, Holyroodhouse underwent significant updates. Royal apartments were redesigned, the water supply was renewed, public spaces were revamped and she even opened up James V’s Tower to the public!