Rosslyn Chapel
Scotland
Rosslyn Chapel, located in the village of Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, is a remarkable 15th-century Episcopal chapel founded in 1446 by William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness. Dedicated to Saint Matthew the Evangelist, it was originally established as a collegiate church supporting a community of priests and choristers. The chapel is renowned for its extraordinary and elaborate stone carvings, which have fascinated historians and visitors alike, with many interpretations exploring their symbolic meanings. After the Scottish Reformation in 1560, the chapel fell into disuse and its altars were destroyed, but it was revived in the 19th century following Queen Victoria's visit and rededication in 1862. Rosslyn Chapel gained international fame in the late 20th century due to speculative connections with the Knights Templar, the Holy Grail, and Freemasonry, popularized by Dan Brown's novel "The Da Vinci Code" and its film adaptation, though historians refute these claims. The chapel underwent extensive restoration from 1997 to 2013, preserving its delicate stonework, stained glass, and organ, and today it remains a privately owned, active place of worship and a prominent tourist destination close to Edinburgh. Photography inside is prohibited to protect its features, but visitors can explore the chapel through guided tours and a modern visitor center.
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Astuce: To ensure entry, book your visit in advance online as daily visits are managed in 90-minute time slots. The chapel is open year-round and located just seven miles from Edinburgh city center, making it accessible for day trips. Children in family groups enter free of charge. Visit in spring or early autumn for milder weather and fewer crowds. Note that photography inside the chapel is not allowed, but official photos are available for purchase. Wear comfortable shoes as the chapel is on a small hill and explore the surrounding Roslin Glen for a complete experience.
Faits intéressants
- •Rosslyn Chapel features some of the most intricate stone carvings in medieval Scotland, including mysterious symbols and figures that have inspired numerous interpretations.
- •Three human skeletons were discovered during restoration work between 1997 and 2013.
- •The chapel was bombed in 1914 as part of the suffragette bombing and arson campaign targeting churches.
- •Rosslyn Chapel's popularity surged globally after featuring in Dan Brown's bestselling novel "The Da Vinci Code" and its 2006 film adaptation.
- •Photography and video recording have been prohibited inside the chapel since 2008 to protect its delicate interior.
Histoire
Rosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 by William Sinclair, 1st Earl of Caithness, as a collegiate church dedicated to Saint Matthew.
It replaced two earlier Sinclair places of worship in Roslin.
The chapel was intended to support a community of priests and choristers to perform daily liturgies and masses.
After the Scottish Reformation in 1560, Catholic worship ceased and the chapel's altars were destroyed in 1592.
By the 19th century, the chapel had fallen into ruin until Queen Victoria's visit in 1842 prompted restoration efforts, culminating in rededication in 1862.
In 1914, the chapel was targeted during the suffragette bombing campaign, suffering damage from an explosion.
Extensive restoration and conservation work continued from the late 20th century into the early 21st century to preserve the chapel's intricate features and open it as a tourist site.
Guide du lieu
The Apprentice Pillar15th century
A masterfully carved stone pillar featuring intricate foliage and symbolic motifs, renowned for its craftsmanship and associated local legend about a stonemason apprentice.
Ornate Stone Carvings15th century
Throughout the chapel, over 1100 carvings depict biblical scenes, plants, animals, and mysterious symbols, showcasing exceptional medieval artistry and craftsmanship.
Stained Glass Windows15th century original, restored 1997–2013
Beautifully restored stained glass windows illuminate the chapel's interior, featuring religious iconography and enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
The Vaulted Ceiling15th century
Featuring elaborate rib vaults and intricate stonework, the ceiling demonstrates advanced medieval architectural techniques and adds to the chapel's mystical ambiance.
Contact
Téléphone: 0131 440 2159
