The many mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel DIANE MACLEAN
AS A BUILDING, Rosslyn Chapel, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is intriguing. The exterior features Gothic gargoyles and flying buttresses, while inside there are ornate pillars, carvings and an extraordinary ceiling.
As a place of mystery, it is a magnet for those with exotic - some might say outlandish - theories.
Built in the mid-15th century by some of the best stonemasons in Europe, the chiselled scenes and symbols would have been easily understood by their medieval audience but seem baffling to us today.
The most striking example of their craft is the Apprentice Pillar, which is beautifully carved and entwined by stone coils. It symbolises the Tree of Life, with carvings snaking round from the bottom to the top. Supposedly carved by an apprentice, the master stonemason was so enraged when he saw the young man's work that he murdered him. The pillar itself has a number of outlandish theories attached to it.
Interesting story , that's weird.I didn't see it but is it possible to visit the chapel or it is close to visitors?I like the castle guide on the site , helpfull for me so thank you for the link.
I visited Roslin chapel this year and it is truely amazing. Although not being very big it is stuffed with ornaments and symbols, so much so that you just do not know where to look. Fortunately there was a guide who told us very much about the history of the chapel and explained some of the significations of the ornaments, but a lot is not known any more. We went into the area below where the old chapel used to be and where you can still find some of the design drawings of the ornaments for the chapel above, on the walls. Roslin chapel is a wonderful and very special old building, the roof is being restored right now.It is heartwarming that it still has an important function in the village and is still used for services and special occasions. A living piece of history! I can advise anyone to visit it if you have the chance. You will remember it for allways.
If you think you can hold me down I beg to differ If you think you can twist my words I'll sing forever
Tha gach uile dhuine air a bhreth saor agus co-ionnan ann an urram 's ann an còirichean. Tha iad air am breth le reusan is le cogais agus mar sin bu chòir dhaibh a bhith beò nam measg fhein ann an spiorad bràthaireil
If you think you can hold me down I beg to differ If you think you can twist my words I'll sing forever