What is the Cowgate and where is it situated within Edinburgh?

The Cowgate is a street located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It lies approximately 550 yards southeast of Edinburgh Castle and is part of the lower level of the city's Old Town. It is situated within the city's World Heritage Site.

How does the Cowgate connect geographically to other parts of Edinburgh's Old Town?

The Cowgate forms the lower level of Edinburgh's Old Town, situated below the elevated streets of South Bridge and George IV Bridge. It meets the Grassmarket at Cowgatehead on its west end and extends eastward to Holyrood Road.

When did the Cowgate first develop, and what was its initial significance?

The Cowgate first developed around 1330, marking Edinburgh's initial municipal expansion. The original settlement was primarily on the south side due to a burn on the north side, which was later filled in and built upon around 1490.

What is the historical origin of the name 'Cowgate'?

The name 'Cowgate' originates from the medieval practice of herding cattle down the street on market days. The street's name has been recorded since 1428, and in 1498 it was known as 'Via Vaccarum', which translates to 'Street of the Cows'.

What does the Scots word 'gate' signify in the context of the street name 'Cowgate'?

In the context of 'Cowgate', the Scots word 'gate' means 'way' or 'road'. This is similar to cognate words found in other Germanic languages, such as the English word 'gait'.

What was the Cowgate Port, and when was it established?

The Cowgate Port was a gatehouse that was part of the city wall, erected in 1516. It was situated at the junction where St Mary's Wynd met the Cowgate.

How was the Cowgate described in the 1581 atlas 'Civitates orbis terrarum'?

In the 1581 edition of 'Civitates orbis terrarum' by Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg, the Cowgate was described as a street where noble families, city councillors, and other distinguished individuals resided in handsome palaces.

What historical events involving Mary, Queen of Scots, are linked to a Cowgate house?

In 1566, Mary, Queen of Scots, stayed in a Cowgate house where the Court of the Exchequer convened. Later, after her abdication, her enemies and George Buchanan described her visits to the Earl of Bothwell in an adjacent house, facilitated by Margaret Beaton, Lady Reres.

What was the socio-economic condition of the Cowgate between the mid-18th and mid-20th centuries?

From the mid-18th century to the mid-20th century, the Cowgate was characterized as a poor and often overcrowded slum area. During the 19th century, it became home to a significant portion of the city's Irish immigrant community, earning it the nickname 'Little Ireland'.

When did a significant fire occur in the Cowgate area, and how did it spread?

A major fire began on the evening of December 7, 2002, above the Belle Angele nightclub off the Cowgate. The fire spread upwards through an eight-story structure and into other buildings on Cowgate and the adjacent South Bridge.

What challenges did firefighters face during the 2002 Cowgate fire?

Firefighting efforts were complicated by the complex nature of the buildings, which featured narrow alleys and entrances on different levels. The Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade described the area as a 'rabbit warren', making access and containment difficult.

How long did it take to control and extinguish the 2002 Cowgate fire?

It took over a day for the fire, which involved 19 fire crews at its peak, to be brought under control. The complete extinguishment of the fire took several more days.

What was the human impact of the 2002 Cowgate fire?

Approximately 150 people were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses due to the fire. Fortunately, there were no fatalities reported as a result of the blaze.

Which academic institution's facilities were severely damaged in the 2002 fire, and what was lost?

The University of Edinburgh School of Informatics, located on South Bridge, was badly damaged. A significant loss was its comprehensive archival library dedicated to artificial intelligence, a field the school pioneered in the 1950s. However, current research data was largely preserved due to offsite backups.

What impact did the 2002 Cowgate fire have on the Edinburgh Fringe festival?

The fire destroyed the Gilded Balloon, a prominent venue for the Edinburgh Fringe festival. Offices for both the Gilded Balloon and the Underbelly venues, housed in a historic Thomas Hamilton-designed warehouse, were also lost.

What was the fate of the site affected by the 2002 Cowgate fire?

Following the fire, the site was temporarily used as a Fringe venue called C venues' Urban Garden in 2007. Subsequently, it was redeveloped by property developer Whiteburn, with construction completed in late 2013. The new development includes a supermarket, hotel, shops, restaurants, a nightclub, and a venal.

What recent event involving a discovery in Cowgate was reported in November 2024?

On November 2, 2024, a severed head was discovered in Cowgate. Police were called to the scene, closed off the area, and evacuated nearby pubs. The discovery was initially believed to be related to a man who had been hit by a bus.

Where is the oldest building in Cowgate located, and what is its name?

The oldest building in Cowgate is located at the west end of the street, situated on the south side just west of where George IV Bridge crosses over. This building is the Magdalen Chapel.

What is the history and original purpose of the Magdalen Chapel?

The Magdalen Chapel is a 16th-century almshouse chapel, built with funds provided by Michael MacQueen starting in 1537 and completed in 1544. It originally operated as a hospital almshouse dedicated to Mary Magdalen under the care of MacQueen's widow until her death in 1553, after which it passed to the Incorporation of Hammermen.

What architectural additions were made to the Magdalen Chapel?

The entrance to the Magdalen Chapel, as viewed from Cowgate, was rebuilt in 1613. A spire was added to the chapel in 1620.

What is St Cecilia's Hall, and what does it house today?

St Cecilia's Hall, designed by Robert Mylne and built in 1763 for the Musical Society of Edinburgh, currently houses a small Georgian concert space. It also holds an important collection of early keyboard instruments owned by the University of Edinburgh.

Describe the history and current status of St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church on Cowgate.

St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church is located at the east end of Cowgate. While dating back to 1772, it underwent extensive remodelling in 1929 after the demolition of tenements that had previously obscured its facade. The church is notable as the founding place of the Hibernian F.C. football club.

What is the significance of the former Cowgatehead Free Church?

The former Cowgatehead Free Church, built in 1861 in Gothic style with an octagonal entrance tower, was no longer in use as a church by the year 2000. It has since been incorporated into the Virgin Hotel development.

Which major libraries have access points on Cowgate?

Both the National Library of Scotland and the Edinburgh Central Library have their lower floors situated on Cowgate. Public access to these libraries is from George IV Bridge, which runs above Cowgate.

Who was Janet Boyman, and what is known about her connection to Cowgate?

Janet Boyman was executed for witchcraft on December 29, 1572. Court documents from the time record her home as being in the Cowgate.

Where was the Irish revolutionary James Connolly born, and what memorials exist for him in Cowgate?

James Connolly, a prominent Irish socialist and revolutionary leader, was born in 1868 at number 107 Cowgate. Today, a likeness of Connolly and a gold-colored plaque dedicated to him are located under the George IV Bridge in Cowgate.

What is the origin story of the Hibernian F.C. football club?

The football club Hibernian F.C. was founded in August 1875 by congregants of St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in the Cowgate. The club remained based at St Patrick's until the early 1890s, and some of the cups won during that early period are still displayed in the church.

Who were Canon John Gray and Venerable Margaret Sinclair in relation to Cowgate?

Canon John Gray, a poet and priest, served as a curate at St Patrick's Church in Cowgate. Venerable Margaret Sinclair, a nun, lived on Blackfriars Street, which is just off Cowgate.

What is the approximate length of the Cowgate?

The Cowgate street measures approximately 0.4 miles (0.64 kilometers) in length.

What is the native name for Cowgate, and in which language?

The native name for Cowgate is 'The Cougait', which is in the Scots language.

What postal code serves the Cowgate area?

The postal code for the Cowgate area is EH1.

What streets mark the west and east ends of the Cowgate?

The Cowgate meets the Grassmarket at Cowgatehead at its west end and extends to Holyrood Road at its east end.

What was the role of the burn on the north side of Cowgate in its early development?

The presence of a burn on the north side of Cowgate influenced early settlement patterns, causing the initial concentration of buildings to be on the south side. This burn was later filled in around 1490 and built upon.

What archaeological findings in the Cowgate area provide insight into its 14th-century boundaries?

Archaeological excavations conducted in 2006 and 2007 near St Patrick's Church uncovered a boundary ditch dating back to the 14th century. This ditch might represent the full extent of the Cowgate during that period.

What was the nature of the Cowgate development completed in late 2013?

The mixed-use development completed in late 2013 on the site of the former Cowgate fire gap includes a small Sainsbury's supermarket, a 259-bed Ibis Hotel, various shops, restaurants, a nightclub, and a venal (a narrow passageway).

What specific instruction was given to developers of the Virgin Hotel in 2018 concerning its facade on Cowgate?

In 2018, city councillors requested that the developers of the Virgin Hotel use light-colored materials for the facade on Cowgate. This was intended to reflect more light into the nearby Edinburgh Central Library.

What is the significance of St Cecilia's Hall's collection?

St Cecilia's Hall houses an important collection of early keyboard instruments, which are owned by the University of Edinburgh. This collection contributes to the historical and musical significance of the building.

What was the purpose of the 'SoCo' proposal mentioned in relation to the Cowgate fire site?

The 'SoCo' proposal was a plan for the redevelopment of the Cowgate fire gap site, aiming to create a new mixed-use development that included a supermarket, hotel, and other commercial and residential spaces.

What is the meaning of the image caption 'The Cowgate, viewed from George IV Bridge'?

The image caption indicates that the photograph shows the Cowgate street as seen from the vantage point of George IV Bridge, providing a specific perspective of the street's location relative to the bridge.

What does the map included in the article represent regarding the Cowgate?

The map, generated using Wikimedia's Kartographer tool, displays the geographical location of the Cowgate within Edinburgh, showing its position with a zoom level of 15 on an international OpenStreetMap layer.

What was the initial purpose of the Magdalen Chapel's construction?

The Magdalen Chapel was initially built as an almshouse chapel and operated as a hospital almshouse, dedicated to Mary Magdalen.

How did the Cowgate's name reflect its historical use?

The name 'Cowgate' reflects its historical function as a street where cattle were herded on market days, a common practice in medieval Edinburgh that also influenced the names of other streets like Grassmarket and Lawnmarket.

What is the significance of the Cowgate being part of Edinburgh's World Heritage Site?

The Cowgate's inclusion within Edinburgh's World Heritage Site designation highlights its historical importance and architectural value as part of the city's preserved historic core.

What is the relationship between Cowgate and the Royal Mile?

The Cowgate is part of the lower level of Edinburgh's Old Town, while the Royal Mile represents the upper level, running parallel and connected by various closes and bridges. The Cowgate lies below the elevated South Bridge and George IV Bridge, which are part of the Royal Mile's infrastructure.

What architectural style is the former Cowgatehead Free Church noted for?

The former Cowgatehead Free Church, built in 1861, is noted for its Gothic architectural style and features an octagonal entrance tower.

What was the outcome of the 2016 protest regarding the luxury hotel development?

While protesters camped out to oppose the luxury hotel, planning permission for the Virgin Hotel, which includes a facade on Cowgate, was granted in 2016. However, subsequent discussions in 2018 led to modifications regarding the materials used to ensure light reflection.

What specific information does the reference to 'Exchequer Rolls' provide about Mary, Queen of Scots' stay in Cowgate?

The reference to the 'Exchequer Rolls' indicates that during Mary, Queen of Scots' stay in a Cowgate house in 1566, provisions such as wine, bread, beer, meat, fish, spices, pewter, and napkins were supplied to her and her nobles.

What is the meaning of the image caption 'South Bridge closed after the Cowgate fire in 2002'?

This caption explains that the photograph depicts South Bridge being closed off following the significant Cowgate fire that occurred in 2002, indicating the impact of the fire on surrounding infrastructure.

What is the significance of the James Connolly plaque under George IV Bridge?

The gold-colored plaque under George IV Bridge is dedicated to James Connolly, an Irish revolutionary born in Cowgate, serving as a memorial to his birthplace and connection to the area.

Cowgate Wiki: Cowgate Chronicles: Unearthing Edinburgh's Layered Past

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The Cowgate: An Edinburgh Artery

Geographical Context

The Cowgate is a significant street situated in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, Scotland. It lies approximately 550 yards (500 meters) southeast of Edinburgh Castle, positioning it as a key thoroughfare within the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notably, the Cowgate occupies the lower level of the Old Town, distinct from the elevated streets of South Bridge and George IV Bridge that span above it.

Urban Fabric

The street connects the Grassmarket at its western extremity (Cowgatehead) to Holyrood Road in the east. Its unique position below the main thoroughfares highlights Edinburgh's complex, multi-layered urban development. Historically, this lower elevation played a role in its character and challenges.

Historical Significance

Emerging around 1330, the Cowgate represents one of Edinburgh's earliest municipal extensions. Its development reflects the city's growth beyond its initial core. The street's name and historical practices underscore its deep roots in the city's commercial and social past.

A Chronicle of Cowgate

Early Development and Naming

The Cowgate's origins trace back to approximately 1330, marking Edinburgh's first significant municipal expansion. Initially, settlement was concentrated on the south side, influenced by the presence of a burn (stream) to the north, which was later filled in and built upon around 1490. Archaeological findings, including a 14th-century boundary ditch near St Patrick's Church, suggest the street's early extent.

The street's name, recorded variously as Cowgate and the Latin "Via Vaccarum" (Way of the Cows) by 1498, derives from the medieval practice of herding cattle along the thoroughfare on market days. The term "gate" itself is a Scots word signifying "way" or "road," common in Germanic languages.

Medieval Prominence and Social Stratification

By 1516, Cowgate Port, a gatehouse within the city wall, stood at its junction with St Mary's Wynd. In 1581, Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg noted in their atlas that the Cowgate was distinguished as a residential area for "noble families and city councillors," alongside other "princely houses and palaces." This suggests a period of considerable prestige.

Historical records indicate that Mary, Queen of Scots, resided in a Cowgate house in 1566, where the Court of the Exchequer convened. Following her abdication, accounts by her adversaries and George Buchanan describe her visits to the Earl of Bothwell at an adjacent residence, facilitated by Margaret Beaton, Lady Reres.

Transformation into a Slum

Between the mid-18th and mid-20th centuries, the Cowgate underwent a significant transformation, evolving into a predominantly poor and often overcrowded slum area. During the 19th century, it became a hub for the city's Irish immigrant community, earning it the moniker "Little Ireland." This period reflects broader societal shifts and the challenges faced by immigrant populations in urban centers.

The 2002 Fire: A Defining Event

The Incident

On the evening of December 7, 2002, a substantial fire originated above the Belle Angele nightclub, adjacent to the Cowgate. The blaze rapidly escalated, spreading through the eight-story structure and engulfing adjacent buildings on both the Cowgate and the elevated South Bridge. The complex, narrow layout of the area, characterized by tight alleys and multiple street-level entrances to the same building, presented formidable challenges for firefighting efforts, described by Lothian and Borders Fire Brigade as a "rabbit warren."

Response and Impact

At its peak, 19 fire crews battled the blaze for over a day before it was brought under control, with complete extinguishment taking several more days. Fortunately, despite the intensity of the fire and the evacuation of 150 residents, there were no fatalities.

The fire caused extensive damage, most notably to the University of Edinburgh's School of Informatics. This institution was a pioneer in artificial intelligence research in the 1950s, and its comprehensive archival library in this field was tragically destroyed. Fortunately, critical research data was preserved due to offsite backups.

The Gilded Balloon, a prominent venue for the Edinburgh Fringe festival, housed in a historic 1823 warehouse designed by Thomas Hamilton, was also destroyed. Offices for the Gilded Balloon and Underbelly venues were lost, with the Gilded Balloon subsequently relocating.

Contemporary Cowgate: Redevelopment and Resilience

Post-Fire Redevelopment

Following the 2002 fire, the site remained a gap for several years. In 2005, work commenced on a new building, the Informatics Forum, which was occupied by mid-2008. The gap site itself was eventually acquired by property developer Whiteburn. Planning permission was granted in January 2009 for a mixed-use development incorporating the site and adjacent structures. Completed in late 2013, this development includes a Sainsbury's supermarket, an Ibis Hotel, retail units, restaurants, a nightclub, and a venel (narrow alleyway).

Planning Disputes and Hotel Development

In 2016, the proposed construction of a luxury hotel by Jansons Property faced significant opposition from protesters, including local homeless individuals. Concerns were raised regarding the potential impact on Edinburgh's UNESCO World Heritage status, displacement of homeless services, and obstruction of natural light to the Edinburgh Central Library. MSP Andy Wightman supported the campaign.

Planning permission for the Virgin Hotel, encompassing the India Buildings on Victoria Street and a facade on Cowgate, was granted in 2016. By 2018, councillors requested that developers utilize lighter materials to enhance light penetration into the Central Library.

Recent Events

On November 2, 2024, a disturbing discovery was made in the Cowgate when a severed head was found. Authorities believe the remains belong to a 74-year-old man who had been struck by a bus. Police responded promptly, securing the area and evacuating nearby establishments.

Architectural Heritage

Magdalen Chapel

Located at the western end, the Magdalen Chapel is the oldest surviving building on Cowgate. Constructed in the mid-16th century (completed 1544) using funds bequeathed by Michael MacQueen, it originally served as an almshouse chapel and hospital dedicated to Mary Magdalen. It later passed to the Incorporation of Hammermen. The entrance was rebuilt in 1613, and a spire was added in 1620.

St Cecilia's Hall

Built in 1763 by architect Robert Mylne for the Musical Society of Edinburgh, St Cecilia's Hall is a significant Georgian concert venue. It currently houses an important collection of early keyboard instruments managed by the University of Edinburgh.

St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church

Standing at the eastern end of Cowgate, St Patrick's Church dates from 1772. It underwent substantial remodelling in 1929 after the demolition of adjacent tenements that had previously obscured its facade.

Libraries and Other Structures

The lower floors of both the National Library of Scotland and the Edinburgh Central Library are situated on the Cowgate, although their public access points are located above on George IV Bridge. The former Cowgatehead Free Church, a Gothic structure from 1861, has been incorporated into the Virgin Hotel development.

Notable Figures

Janet Boyman

Court documents from December 29, 1572, record Janet Boyman's residence in Cowgate at the time of her execution for witchcraft, highlighting the street's association with historical social and legal events.

James Connolly

The prominent Irish socialist leader and revolutionary, James Connolly, was born at number 107 Cowgate in 1868. A likeness of Connolly and a commemorative plaque are situated beneath the George IV Bridge, acknowledging his connection to the area.

Hibernian F.C. Founders

The esteemed football club Hibernian F.C. was established in August 1875 by congregants of St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in the Cowgate. The club maintained its base at St Patrick's until the early 1890s, and historical trophies from this period are still displayed within the church.

Clergy and Nuns

Canon John Gray, a noted poet and priest, served as a curate at St Patrick's Church. Additionally, Venerable Margaret Sinclair, a nun, resided on Blackfriars Street, adjacent to the Cowgate.

Location Overview

Interactive Map

The Cowgate is situated in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland. Its position below South Bridge and George IV Bridge is a defining characteristic of its geography within the city's historic core.

Cowgate

Native name Cougait (Scots) Length 0.4 mi (0.64 km) Location Edinburgh, Scotland Postal Code EH1 West End Candlemaker Row East End The Pleasance

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References

George Buchanan, Ane Detectioun of the Duinges of Marie Quene of Scottes, (1571).

R. H. Mahon, The indictment of Mary Queen of Scots (Cambridge, 1923), p. 35

A full list of references for this article are available at the Cowgate Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not be entirely comprehensive, up-to-date, or reflective of the most current scholarship or conditions.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for expert historical research, architectural consultation, urban planning analysis, or legal advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific inquiries related to historical interpretation, property development, or legal matters.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Cowgate Chronicles

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

The Cowgate: An Edinburgh Artery 📍

🗺️ Geographical Context

🔗 Urban Fabric

📜 Historical Significance

A Chronicle of Cowgate ⏳

🏗️ Early Development and Naming

👑 Medieval Prominence and Social Stratification

🏘️ Transformation into a Slum

The 2002 Fire: A Defining Event 🔥

💥 The Incident

🚒 Response and Impact

Contemporary Cowgate: Redevelopment and Resilience 🏗️

🏢 Post-Fire Redevelopment

⚖️ Planning Disputes and Hotel Development

🚨 Recent Events

Architectural Heritage 🏛️

⛪ Magdalen Chapel

🎶 St Cecilia's Hall

✝️ St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church

📚 Libraries and Other Structures

Notable Figures 👤

🔥 Janet Boyman

🇮🇪 James Connolly

⚽ Hibernian F.C. Founders

✍️ Clergy and Nuns

Location Overview 🗺️

📍 Interactive Map

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

The Cowgate: An Edinburgh Artery

Geographical Context

Urban Fabric

Historical Significance

A Chronicle of Cowgate

Early Development and Naming

Medieval Prominence and Social Stratification

Transformation into a Slum

The 2002 Fire: A Defining Event

The Incident

Response and Impact

Contemporary Cowgate: Redevelopment and Resilience

Post-Fire Redevelopment

Planning Disputes and Hotel Development

Recent Events

Architectural Heritage

Magdalen Chapel

St Cecilia's Hall

St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church

Libraries and Other Structures

Notable Figures

Janet Boyman

James Connolly

Hibernian F.C. Founders

Clergy and Nuns

Location Overview

Interactive Map

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice