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Rosslyn Chapel

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artslover
artslover
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Rosslyn Chapel

  • April 11, 2006
  • Rated 4 of 5 by artslover from Calgary, Alberta
Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel is located outside of Edinburgh. You can take a bus but we decided to get there by taxi. Six of us took what the Scottish call a people carrier, what North Americans call a mini van. With that number, the cost of the taxi (about £20) was competitive with the bus and much more convenient.The drive from downtown Edinburgh to the village of Rosslin was less than 30 minutes. Numerous signs point to the village and once at the village, further signs point to Rosslyn Chapel.Rosslyn Chapel is a fascinating structure which has become a greater tourist attraction because of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code novel. Building of the Chapel started in the 15th century and the full planned version was never completed. The Chapel is not huge compared to many other Gothic style churches.When you first see it from the parking lot, you notice the corrugated steel roofing above the building and the scaffolding which surrounds it. At first glance, it looks like a ruin about to fall down.Admission is charged to see Rosslyn Chapel's interior (£6 for adults, children are free, £5 for students and seniors). Admission is paid in a small building which sells souvenirs and has a small coffee shop.The fascination of Rosslyn Chapel lies in the extensive and intricate carvings. As readers of the Da Vinci Code know, many of the carvings appear to make references to the Knights Templar and the Masons society. Even for those not caught up in the theories of the Da Vinci Code, or think they're bunk, the carvings are nevertheless captivating as they are replete with historical, biblical and artistic interest.Signs describe some of the history and significance of the building and its details. You can also listen to the tour guides. One of the fascinating stories told to visitors is that of apprentice pillar. The master mason began a pillar but was unable to complete his work and so journeyed to Rome to receive further guidance and inspiration. However, on his return he found the pillar had already been completed in his absence by his apprentice. In his fury at the superior work of the apprentice, the master mason killed the young apprentice, and so the pillar was named.You can climb up the scaffolding on the exterior to view the upper levels. This short trip is worth the effort.

From journal Endlessly Fascinating Edinburgh

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