Across the gently flowing Water of Leith stands St Bernard’s Bridge. It’s a rather unassuming structure, wouldn’t you agree? But don’t let its quiet presence fool you. St Bernard’s Bridge holds a few secrets. This bridge, sometimes called Mackenzie Bridge, was built in 1824. It originally spanned the river with a single arch. Look closely at the southern side. You’ll see a smaller, blocked-off arch. This once carried the Great Lade. This waterway powered the mills that dotted the river all the way down to Canonmills and Logie Green. The steps and additional archways that you see today were added much later, in 1887. Notice the coat of arms above the western arch? It commemorates this addition. Now, about the name. Visitors often wonder about the connection to St. Bernard. Surprisingly, there’s no evidence that a St. Bernard ever set foot in Scotland, or even England for that matter. The name likely comes from Bernard of Clairvaux, a highly influential figure in the 12th century. He was well-known throughout Europe, even to England’s King Henry I and his nobles. A story circulates that a monk from the Cistercian Abbey of Culross, founded by monks sent by Bernard of Clairvaux, lived in a cave near this part of the river. When the nearby St. Bernard’s Well was named, perhaps in honor of this monk, the name spread to the bridge, to St. Bernard’s Crescent, and even to a primary school on Dean Park Street. St Bernard’s Bridge, a quiet testament to Edinburgh’s layered history. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple structures can hold fascinating stories.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to