Rosslyn Chapel
A small 15th-century chapel covered in intricate stone carvings and mysterious motifs, made famous by The Da Vinci Code.
Located in the village of Roslin about 11 kilometres south of Edinburgh, the chapel was founded in 1446 by the St Clair family. Almost every surface of its stonework is carved, including the Apprentice Pillar, Green Man heads, decorative motifs said to depict American maize, and angel musicians. These carvings have inspired many legends linking the chapel to the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail, and the ending of the novel The Da Vinci Code was set here. Tickets cost about £10, and advance booking on the official website is recommended. Photography inside is not permitted. From the city centre, take bus 37; the journey takes about 40 minutes.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat about 09:30–17:00; Sun 12:00–16:45 (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Craigmillar Castle
- Arthur's Seat
- National Museum of Scotland
- Our Dynamic Earth
- Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby
- Scottish Parliament Building
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Royal Mile