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SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT

It was a long and difficult journey for the creation of the Scottish Parliament. Scotland had its own parliament until it came under English rule 300 years ago, but the parliament reorganized in 1997 and an international design competition was held with the Spanish architect Enric Miralles selected in 1998. The project was designed by his firm Miralles Tagliabue EMBT as well as the Scottish firm RMJM. Sadly, Miralles died from a brain tumor before the project was completed in 2004, so the design was then led by his partner Benedetta Tagliabue. High expectations, the unusual design and increasing construction costs made the process more complicated and more controversial.

This design was conceived to blend elements of the Scottish landscape, people and culture, and won the competition for the way it combined existing elements with new technologies. Viewed from above, berms extend into the landscape, and tie it to the site and Arthur’s Seat beyond. Tapping into deeper cultural references, the building has elements that resemble scattered leaves, upturned boats, floral patterns and Saltine, the Scottish cross seen in the lobby ceiling vaults. 

The building houses 129 parliament members and about 1,000 staff members. An office block on the west side of the site connects to the medieval city with unique spaces for each member to reflect on their decisions. The debating chamber is the centerpiece of the project. In stark contrast to the English Parliament where opposing sides face each other, the curved amphitheater seating is covered with elaborately detailed wood and steel trusses. You can sense the architect’s emotional force here with the attention to every detail encouraging the visitor to touch the building.

The building is located in central Edinburgh about a 14 minute walk from the Waverley train station at the east end of what is known as the Royal Mile. Sign up online for an informative tour where you’ll get to see much of the interior including the debating chamber.

About 15 minutes walk from the parliament is The Devil’s Advocate at number 9 Advocate’s Close just down these steps from High Street. The atmosphere and food is great and why not try a flight of Scotch whisky while you are here. Enjoy your visit to Edinburgh and the Scottish Parliament.

For information about tours of the Scottish Parliament:

http://www.parliament.scot/

Here is a link to The Devil's Advocate:

http://devilsadvocateedinburgh.co.uk/