Mons Meg
The Beast of Edinburgh
The Beast of Edinburgh
Mons Meg is one of the largest medieval cannons ever built. Forged in 1449 in Mons (in present-day Belgium), this mighty siege weapon was a gift to King James II of Scotland and became a symbol of royal power.
Mons Meg could fire a 150kg stone cannonball nearly two miles. It was used in several sieges, most famously at Norham Castle in 1497. In 1558, it was fired to celebrate the marriage of Mary Queen of Scots — the force broke the barrel and it was never fired in anger again. It was moved to the Tower of London in 1754 and returned to Edinburgh in 1829 at the request of Sir Walter Scott.
Get up close to this incredible medieval superweapon.
See examples of the massive projectiles it could fire.
The cannon's position offers stunning views over Edinburgh.
Book your tickets and experience all the castle's historic sections in person.
