Is this some kind of Roman temple? The structure before us, the William Henry Miller Monument, might fool you with its grandeur. It’s actually a mausoleum, a testament to one man’s wealth and perhaps, his eccentricities. This imposing monument, known locally as the “Craigentinny Marbles,” was built for William Henry Miller, a wealthy landowner and MP. When Miller died in 1848, his will stipulated a rather unusual request: to be buried 40 feet below ground. Some whispered that he feared grave robbers, others joked about a fear of vampires. Whatever the reason, his wish was granted. The construction, entrusted to architect David Rhind, was no easy feat. The mausoleum itself was completed in 1856, but the intricate bas-reliefs, depicting scenes from the biblical Exodus, were added later. These masterpieces, created by Alfred Gatley, are worth a closer look. The northern relief depicts the dramatic “Overthrow of Pharaoh in the Red Sea”. On the south side, “The Song of Moses and Miriam” portrays the joyous celebration of the Israelites’ escape. The William Henry Miller Monument stands as a reminder of a bygone era, a blend of opulence and morbid curiosity.
Duke Street United Reformed Church
Hidden within the bustling streets of Leith, Duke Street United Reformed Church has witnessed over 150 years of Edinburgh’s history.