Introduction to Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel is a popular visitor attraction in the village of Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, about eight miles directly south of Edinburgh. The correct style of name is Collegiate Chapel of St. Matthew. This is a living church within the Anglican/Episcopalian communion.
History of Rosslyn Chapel
In recent years visitor numbers have grown exponentially due to the Chapel featuring in Dan Brown’s mystical thriller The Da Vinci Code. However, with a history dating back to the 15th century, the Chapel has much to offer the visitor.
A summary of key facts and information is provided below.
Founded by Sir William Sinclair, third and last St. Clair Prince of Orkney in 1446. The Chapel remains under control of Sir William’s descendants today.
Took 40 years to build using some of the top stone masons in Europe.
Shortly after Sir William’s death in 1484 work on the Chapel ceased. It is believed that what exists today was intended as the choir of a much larger collegiate complex.
Built for private, Catholic worship which ceased in 1592 due to the Protestant Reformation.
An unused ruin from 1592 to 1862 when worship (Episcopalian) re-commenced.
In 1954 severe damage was caused by application of incorrect treatment to the interior with aim of remedying water saturation which was threatening the building.
In 1997 a free-standing steel ‘umbrella’ structure was erected to facilitate natural drying out. This proved successful and the structure has since been removed.
Today, visitors are attracted by a display of some of the best stone carvings in Europe featuring the following highly decorated: features:
Plant motifs
Symbols relevant to Old Testament texts
Knights Templar
Freemasonry;
Apprentice pillar;
Scandinavia mythology
Pagan themes.
Below is image of the interior ceiling taken prior to photography ban.
Feline Visitor at Rosslyn Chapel
A local cat named William has taken up residence in the chapel and has become something of a local celebrity. He may rank as the most petted cat in Britain! William themed merchandise is available in the visitor centre.
Famous visitors of the past
During the 18th and 19th centuries the Chapel attracted famous literary and artistic luminaries including Sir Walter Scott, J.M.W. Turner, Robert Burns, Lord Byron, William and Dorothy Wordsworth and Alexander Nasmyth.
Queen Victoria visited the chapel on 14 September 1842, with Prince Albert, while staying at Dalkeith Palace, on the last day of her first trip to Scotland. In her diaries, she described the Chapel’s architecture as ‘most beautiful & rich’.
Visiting
The Chapel is open daily with restrictions on Sundays. Talks are provided by expert tour guides at specified times. Refreshments are available on site.
Photography of the interior is not permitted.