Throughout recorded history, the massive rock on which Edinburgh Castle stands today served as a natural stronghold, first used by the warring Celtic tribes in the 1st century AD. In the 7th century, Edwin of Northumbria is credited with building the castle, and anglicising the settlement's name to Edinburgh. King Malcolm II was successful in defeating the Northumbrians in the early 11th century, making Edinburgh Castle a Scottish stronghold. The town developed around the Castle, and continued to grow down the slope of the rock on which the castle stands. The 14th and 15th centuries were characterised by power struggles and a brief period of English rule. Robert the Bruce granted Edinburgh a royal charter during this time, and at the end of the 15th century, the Palace of Holyrood was built. The city’s economy began to improve, with evident benefits derived from trade and its wool exports. The area known today as ‘Old Town’ was expanding, with the creation of Cowgate and the Grassmarket. In 1513, Edinburgh suffered a serious defeat at the hands of the English at the Battle of Flodden. Shortly thereafter, the citizens began to build a wall to defend themselves against further incursions, calling the fortification the Wall of Flodden. The wall was completed in 1560 and served as the city’s boundary for more than 200 years. Edinburgh history has been coloured by scandal, murder and intrigue, as well. It’s said that the murder of Queen Mary’s favourite lover (David Rizzio) was ordered by her husband, Lord Darnley, and carried out at Holyroodhouse by a group of noblemen loyal to him. At the age of 13 months, in 1567, their son became King James VI of Scotland. Later that same century the city saw the establishment of Edinburgh University; and in the early part of the 17th century, James VI of Scotland became the King of England. It was in 1633 that Edinburgh became the official capital of Scotland; but about 70 years later the Act of Union joined Scotland with England, dissolving the Scottish parliament. Later in the 19th century, the city expanded once again. At this time, middle-class suburbs came into being – such as Morningside and Marchmont. The year 1831 saw the opening of the Edinburgh and Leith railway line, which linked the city’s port and industrial area with Edinburgh: the Edinburgh and Glasgow rail line followed about 10 years later. For many people, modern Edinburgh is associated with the world-famous Edinburgh International Festival. Visitors have been drawn to the city to enjoy this incredible international arts event and the many fringe activities occurring at the same time since 1947. In recent years, the Scottish parliament has been re-established, some three centuries after the Act of Union joined Scotland with England. | 
