Royal Scottish Academy

The Royal Scottish Academy, temple of the fine arts

The Edinburgh audio-guided tour stops you before the Royal Scottish Academy, built by the same architect as the neighbouring gallery. This building, looking like a Greek Doric temple, presents artworks a few steps from the castle, to the delight of residents and visitors.

Nearly two centuries serving artists

Founded in 1826, the Royal Scottish Academy is Scotland's national academy of fine arts. It exhibits Scottish paintings and sculptures and also grants prizes, scholarships and residencies to artists working in Scotland. For nearly two centuries, it has championed and promoted the country's artistic creation.

What there is to see

The academy marks the boundary between the old town, from which you come, and the new town of Edinburgh. Its Greek-temple architecture, whose north pediment is topped by a statue, makes it a major landmark in the urban landscape. Inside, the exhibitions highlight contemporary Scottish art and the work of the country's artists.

Practical information

The Royal Scottish Academy is on the boundary between the old town and the new town of Edinburgh, near the Scottish National Gallery. It hosts exhibitions according to its own schedule; opening times may vary. The façade can be contemplated freely from the street.

When was the academy founded?

The Royal Scottish Academy was founded in 1826. It is Scotland's national academy of fine arts and has supported the country's artists for nearly two centuries.

What is the style of the building?

The building has an architecture in the form of a Greek Doric temple, with a north pediment topped by a statue, typical of the neoclassical taste of the new town.