An unmistakable symbol of the city, Edinburgh Castle is without doubt Scotland’s most famous landmark, and with over nine centuries of history and an imposing presence, it’s easy to see why. It’s also one of the oldest castles in Europe. Perched high on a volcanic rock known as Castle Rock, this medieval fortress holds within its walls treasures that tell the story of its past and the many events that unfolded here. Completed in the 12th century, it stands as a powerful reminder of Scotland’s strength and of the long, fierce rivalry between Scotland and England. The castle has withstood devastating sieges and battles, defending the city time and again against English attempts to push north. Inside, you’ll find numerous rooms open to visitors, including the Royal Apartments where the famous Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots and Queen of France in the 16th century, gave birth to the future King James VI of Scotland, who would also reign as James I of England and Ireland from 1567 to 1625. His reign remains the longest in Scottish history, and in 1603 he adopted the title of King of Great Britain and Ireland. It was under his rule that Britain’s colonisation of the Americas began. The castle became a royal residence when the Stuarts were crowned sovereigns of Scotland at the end of the 15th century, and today it houses the Crown Jewels, the grim war prisons that reveal the harsh conditions prisoners endured, St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, and the National War Museum of Scotland. Visiting the castle is a true journey into the city’s history, bringing you face to face with the figures who shaped it. And there’s one tradition you shouldn’t miss: every day except Sunday at exactly 1:00 p.m., a cannon is fired. Once used to let sailors and townsfolk set the time on the early forerunners of modern watches, it now continues as a proud Scottish custom, though if you happen to be inside when it goes off, be ready for quite a bang.