From The Mound’s heights a panorama unfolds. Princes Street stretches below a vibrant tapestry of shops and life. This isn’t just any viewpoint. The Mound itself is a testament to Edinburgh’s ingenuity a man-made marvel.
The Mound is more than a scenic overlook. It’s a historical landmark. Formed from 1501000 cartloads of earth. This earth came from the New Town’s construction. It filled the Nor Loch transforming a swamp into Princes Street Gardens. The Mound’s creation connected the Old and New Towns. A vital thoroughfare it became. This was a solution to the need for a better connection between these two parts of the city.
Imagine the scene in 1783. Lord Provost John Grieve first proposed the Mound. It was to improve connections between merchants. They were located in the Royal Mile and residents of the then newly developing Princes Street. This bold plan wasn’t instantly realized. It took until 1827 for the Improvement Act to formally approve the project. Years of work followed. By 1830 The Mound was macadamized and landscaped. It was a significant achievement.
But The Mound’s story doesn’t end there. A railway tunnel was anticipated. One was built in 1846. A second was added in 1892. These tunnels run beneath The Mound. This shows forward thinking planning. Later an electric blanket was installed beneath the road. This kept the road clear of ice and snow. This was innovative for its time.
Today The Mound’s legacy continues. The National Gallery of Scotland stands proudly. The Royal Scottish Academy stands as another testament to the area. The Bank of Scotland headquarters is also located here. The elegant domed building is a sight to behold. Its museum Museum on the Mound is another draw. These notable buildings and institutions add to The Mound’s allure. From this viewpoint you see them all. You can also see the spires of New College. This is the University of Edinburgh’s New College. The General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland is nearby. All a part of The Mound’s impressive history.
So as you stand here on The Mound. Take in the views. Reflect on the story behind this unique feature of Edinburgh. It’s more than just a slope. It’s a journey through time. It’s a connection between eras. It’s a lasting symbol of Edinburgh’s ambition and innovative spirit.