St Margaret's Chapel
Edinburgh's Oldest Surviving Building
Edinburgh's Oldest Surviving Building
St Margaret's Chapel is not only the oldest building within Edinburgh Castle but also the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh itself. This tiny Romanesque chapel dates back to the early 12th century and is dedicated to Queen Margaret of Scotland.
The chapel was built by King David I in memory of his mother, Queen Margaret, around 1130. Margaret was known for her devout Christian faith and charitable works, and was later canonized as a saint in 1250. Throughout the centuries, the chapel survived numerous sieges and conflicts that destroyed much of the castle.
The distinctive zig-zag (chevron) pattern carved into the chancel arch.
Modern windows depicting Scottish saints by Douglas Strachan (1922).
The original stone altar where services have been held for centuries.
Book your tickets and experience all the castle's historic sections in person.
