Here at the Burns Monument, we celebrate Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. This monument isn’t just a structure. It’s a tribute to a man who captured the hearts of a nation.
The Burns Monument was constructed between 1831 and 1839. It stands in memory of Robert Burns, Scotland’s revered poet. Thomas Hamilton designed it, the same architect behind the Burns Monument in Alloway. He also designed the Royal High School across the road.
Edinburgh earned the nickname “Athens of the North” due to its architecture. The Burns Monument reflects this with its Greek inspiration. It’s modeled on the ancient choragic monument of Lysicrates in Athens. Notice the 12 Corinthian columns. Admire the intricate stone carvings and the Ravelston sandstone domed roof. Look up to see the tripod surrounded by lion sculptures.
Originally, a white marble statue of Burns stood here. John Flaxman created it. The statue has since moved to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. This was to preserve its beauty. The monument is surrounded by plants from Burns’ poetry. Hollies, laurels, and Ayrshire roses bloom here.
Burns had a humble upbringing on a tenant farm. His parents valued education. Burns wrote his first love poem around 15. He wrote over 700 works in his short life. His poems covered love, nature, class, and farm life.
Burns became Scotland’s national poet after his death. Every January 25th, people celebrate Burns Suppers. They enjoy haggis and whiskey. They recite “Address to a Haggis” and other poems.
John Forbes Mitchell proposed the idea for a monument in 1812. Expatriates raised funds for it. The Duke of Atholl chaired the committee. The foundation stone was laid on September 8, 1831. The City of Edinburgh took ownership in 1839.
Extensive restoration work was completed in 2009. A ceremony marked the reopening on September 6, 2009. The Edinburgh & District Burns Clubs Association meets here. They sometimes host talks and performances.
The Burns Monument overlooks the New Calton Burial Ground. William Knox, another Scottish poet, is buried here. The monument also overlooks the Canongate graveyard. Agnes MacLehose, Burns’ friend “Clarinda”, rests there.
Emeka Ogboh’s audio installation “Song of the Union” was part of the Edinburgh Art Festival in 2021. It used the Burns Monument as its setting. This monument stands as a testament to Burns’ enduring legacy. It is a place to reflect on his words and his impact on Scotland.