Category: History

In 1828, Edinburgh was a European centre for studying anatomy. Pioneering anatomy teachers taught at the Royal College of Surgeons and dissected bodies during lectures in front of many eager students. However, the strict laws around which bodies could be used led to a shortage. Burke and Hare found a way to earn money from a desperate anatomist during this crisis in a terrifying chapter of Edinburgh’s history.

During visits to Edinburgh you have likely passed through the Old Town and the New Town. You might have even wondered why the areas look so different, despite being so close to each other. The answer lies in their history.

Earlier this year The Real Mary King’s Close broadcast a live virtual tour filled with interesting findings and acclaimed expertise from our knowledgeable guides and fellow history buffs. One certain history buff, Dr Aaron Allen, a Scottish History Expert from The University of Edinburgh decided to go one step further and compare the Epidemics of 1645 and now, detailing how the same old problems, sometimes require the same old solutions.

Read more about an air raid shelter under Edinburgh’s City Chambers, a soldier bear and Mary King’s Close during the First and Second World War.

Our namesake was a woman ahead of her time. Her fascinating story tells of power, fine garments, and the naming of a close.

Find out more about the insidious witch prickers who used to strike terror into the hearts of Edinburgh’s past residents.

In this blog post we look at how the history of The Real Mary King’s Close is intertwined with that of the famous Scottish spirit, whisky.

Find out why we’re featured in the Heritage Days Out Top Trumps, the story behind it, and how you can play your cards right to come out on top.

Delve deep into the history of one of Edinburgh’s biggest disaster in 1824 that took place only steps away from The Real Mary King’s Close today.