Palace of Holyroodhouse

📍 City of Edinburgh, Scotland

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About

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, also known as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the monarch of the United Kingdom in Scotland. Located at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood has served as the principal royal residence in Scotland since the 16th century, and is a setting for state occasions and official entertaining.

Originally an Augustinian monastery founded in 1128 by David I of Scotland. Became a royal residence in the 15th century. The current palace was largely rebuilt 1671-1678 for Charles II in a classical style by architect Sir William Bruce. Mary Queen of Scots lived here 1561-1567, and it was here that her secretary David Rizzio was murdered. Still used for state ceremonies and royal events.