The Mound & Mound Place, Edinburgh: A Historic Link Between Old and New Towns

Origins and Construction of The Mound

The Mound was formed from the earth excavated during the construction of Edinburgh’s New Town in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. After the draining of the Nor Loch in 1765, the vast quantities of spoil—over 1.5 million cartloads—were deposited to create a raised embankment linking the Old Town and New Town. The concept was championed by John Grieve, Lord Provost in the 1780s, who envisioned a direct connection to facilitate trade and movement between the two parts of the city. Construction began around 1781 and continued until about 1830, when the Mound was macadamised and landscaped, transforming it from a mere pile of earth into a functional and aesthetic urban feature.

A Hub of Culture and Commerce

The Mound quickly became more than a transport route; it evolved into a cultural and commercial artery. Early on, it hosted various informal entertainments, including shooting galleries and the Rotunda, which showcased early moving panoramas and dioramas. These were cleared away in the 1840s to make way for grander institutions. Today, the Mound is home to some of Edinburgh’s most significant buildings: the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy, both designed by William Henry Playfair, stand prominently here. The Bank of Scotland’s domed headquarters crowns the top of the Mound, housing the Museum on the Mound, dedicated to the history of money and finance.

Architectural and Urban Significance

The Mound’s architecture reflects Edinburgh’s neoclassical elegance and urban planning ideals. Playfair’s designs for the galleries and New College, with their grand facades and spires, complement the historic surroundings. The Mound’s elevated position offers sweeping views over Princes Street Gardens and the New Town skyline, including Calton Hill. Beneath the Mound, railway tunnels built in the mid-19th century demonstrate the integration of transport infrastructure with urban development. The roadway itself was once equipped with an early electric heating system to prevent ice and snow accumulation, underscoring its importance as a year-round route.

Modern Role and Atmosphere

Today, the Mound remains a bustling thoroughfare linking Edinburgh’s historic and modern districts. It serves as a venue for festival events and street performances, adding vibrancy to its rich historical tapestry. The area blends the solemnity of cultural institutions with lively public spaces, making it a focal point for both locals and visitors. The Museum on the Mound offers unique insights into Scotland’s financial heritage, while the surrounding streets invite exploration of Edinburgh’s layered history and architectural grandeur.

Historical Anecdotes and Local Lore

The Mound’s origins are tied to a tailor named George Boyd, who in the late 18th century first laid planks across the swampy drained loch to create a rudimentary crossing. His vision of a direct route was realized through the gradual accumulation of earth from New Town excavations. Despite early reputations as a somewhat disreputable area filled with informal amusements, the Mound was transformed into a prestigious cultural precinct. Its story reflects Edinburgh’s evolution from a medieval city constrained by natural barriers into a planned capital blending heritage and modernity.

Enduring Legacy in Edinburgh’s Urban Fabric

The Mound exemplifies Edinburgh’s innovative urban development, turning a natural obstacle into a vital connector and cultural landmark. It symbolizes the city’s growth and adaptation, linking the medieval Old Town with the Georgian New Town. The Mound’s blend of history, architecture, and public life continues to define its unique character, making it an essential part of Edinburgh’s identity and a must-see for visitors seeking to understand the city’s past and present.