ABOUT SCOTLAND
May 20th, 2011
Through the centuries
The mysterious stone circles scattered across the archipelagos of Scotland’s islands mark the start of Scotland’s known history, and are thought to date back 5,000 years. From that point in Neolithic Scotland, all the way to the passing of the Scotland Act in 1998 – leading to the establishment of the first Scottish Parliament since the Act of Union in 1707 – Scotland has a rich and colourful history. The centuries abounding with tales of fallen monarchs, uprisings, glorious victories and bloody defeats. And we have seen Scottish figures such as like Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary Queen of Scots, and William Wallace breathe once again as inspiring characters in modern day adaptations of heroic histories.
The Georgian architecture of Edinburgh brought in a refined elegance that still remains today as the very symbol of a time of growing confidence, often called the ‘Age of Enlightenment’. Then the age of the Victorians was marked by expanding cities, especially Glasgow, and an entrepreneurial air, when this part of Scotland was referred to as ‘the workshop of the Western World’.
With all that history flowing through their veins, it isn’t surprising that the Scots are proud of their heritage. In this section you can learn a little more about the origins of Scotland, and how they have contributed to the development of a highly modern country today.
Inspiration in concentrated form
If you travel by train over the River Tweed, close to the Scottish Border, then all the way up to the country’s most northerly railway station in Thurso, you will notice at least two things. One, that it really doesn’t take very long to traverse an entire country. And two, that in such a short time you get to hear a whole spectrum of Scottish accents. However, despite the changing lilts in the voices, the general sentiment will remain the same – people are consistently friendly and enthusiastic. And passionate about their country and their culture.
A ticket collector could very easily quote you his favourite Burns poem. The young art student sitting next to you will gladly chat away about the latest football scores. The old lady drinking her flask of tea across the way will tell you all about how much she loves a good, high-paced ceilidh.
Scotland has produced a pretty high number of artists, writers, actors, musicians and dancers, so whether it’s dance, art, literature, theatre or even a little bit of opera that you want to experience – Scotland will most definitely have it. And the ever-spirited Scottish people will be more than happy to help in showing you how to best enjoy it.