Visiting Rosslyn Chapel: A Journey of History, Architecture, and Mystery
My first visit to Rosslyn Chapel was in 2014 when I traveled there with my teenage daughter. At the time, she was fascinated by the tales surrounding this unique chapel since we recognized it from The Da Vinci Code movie starring Tom Hanks. We were eager to experience not only a famous movie location but also a historic site with its own flair for mystery.
(It should be noted that at this time, no indoor photography is permitted)
Fast-forward to October 2024, and I returned to this remarkable site, this time with my husband, an engineer with a deep appreciation for structural design. It was a completely new experience for both of us; this time, we approached it with even greater awe. My husband's technical expertise added an additional layer of wonder to the chapel's already fascinating story.
The Journey from Edinburgh to Rosslyn Chapel
Getting to Rosslyn Chapel from Edinburgh couldn't have been easier. We boarded a bus from the city's center, embarking on a scenic 40-minute ride that took us through Edinburgh's suburbs and into the charming Scottish countryside, with views of the rolling hills that make this area so captivating. I also remembered how simple it had been in 2014 — the ease of travel made it an ideal day trip from Edinburgh. With regular public transportation, Rosslyn Chapel is an accessible escape for anyone visiting Edinburgh. I highly recommend it for those who want to explore more of the area's historical gems without venturing too far.
Alternatively, you could visit the chapel as part of a full day trip to the Scottish Borders through Viator.
The Stunning Architecture of Rosslyn Chapel
As we approached Rosslyn Chapel, it was just as breathtaking as I remembered, though this time, I had a deeper appreciation for its architectural details. My husband was immediately struck by the chapel's craftsmanship and structural ingenuity.
Rosslyn Chapel, completed in the 15th century, is a stunning example of medieval architecture that combines Gothic elements with unique, even mysterious features. From the intricate stonework of the façade to the soaring flying buttresses that help support the chapel's walls, it was clear that this was no ordinary place of worship.
What sets Rosslyn Chapel apart from other historical sites is the level of intricacy in almost every stone. Every corner of the chapel seems to tell a story, from the delicate carvings of the Green Men to the mysterious Apprentice Pillar, which I had heard so much about. The stone masons who worked on the chapel were masters of their craft, and it's easy to see why Rosslyn Chapel continues to captivate both casual visitors and experts alike.
The Mystery of the Chapel: The Da Vinci Code Connection
Rosslyn Chapel is shrouded in mystery, and no visit would be complete without considering the link to The Da Vinci Code, the bestselling novel by Dan Brown. Although the chapel had already been a place of fascination for centuries, the book's release in 2003 brought it into the global spotlight. Brown's novel tied the chapel to the secretive world of the Freemasons and suggested it might hold clues to the Holy Grail's hidden location. While these claims are fictional, they have undeniably contributed to the allure of Rosslyn Chapel, drawing visitors from all over the world who want to explore its connection to the book.
The Chapel Trust has, understandably, capitalized on this newfound fame. During our visit in 2024, there was a clear emphasis on the chapel's place in The Da Vinci Code, with brochures, exhibitions, and even guided tours offering insight into the chapel's role in the novel. While I'm sure many visitors are drawn to the chapel because of its connection to the book and movie, I found it interesting how the Trust manages this connection. They've struck a balance between honoring the chapel's real history and acknowledging its pop culture fame without letting the fiction overshadow its genuine historical and architectural significance.
The Green Men and the Mystical Imagery
One of the most striking features of Rosslyn Chapel is its rich symbolism, much of which can be seen in the carvings of the Green Men, enigmatic faces often surrounded by leaves. These carvings, scattered throughout the chapel, have long intrigued visitors and scholars. The Green Men are thought to represent the cycles of nature, fertility, and rebirth. They symbolize the link between humanity and the natural world in many ways, reflecting the medieval understanding of the interconnectedness of life, death, and renewal. As I wandered through the chapel's richly adorned interior with my husband, we both marveled at how the faces seemed to follow us, their expressions frozen in stone yet somehow brimming with life. For a more immersive experience, I recommend bringing binoculars to view the intricate details of the carvings at the higher levels.
Beyond the Green Men, the chapel is also adorned with other symbolic carvings, including motifs of angels, animals, and biblical scenes. But perhaps the most famous carvings are those of the two pillars near the altar: the Apprentice Pillar and the Master Mason's Pillar.
The Apprentice Pillar and the Master Mason's Pillar
The story of the Apprentice Pillar is one of the most famous legends associated with Rosslyn Chapel. According to the tale, the Master Mason was away during a construction period, and his apprentice, eager to impress his mentor, took it upon himself to carve a pillar that would rival any other. The result was the Apprentice Pillar, which is striking in its design, featuring a twisted, ornate column that is genuinely remarkable. However, when the Master returned, he was enraged by the pillar's beauty. He killed the apprentice in a fit of jealousy. The Master then carved a competing pillar, the Master Mason's Pillar, which, while still impressive, lacks the same level of intricate detail as the Apprentice Pillar.
I remember standing in front of these two pillars during my 2014 visit and feeling the weight of this tale, almost as if I could sense the tension and rivalry in the air. My husband, with his eye for detail, marveled at the engineering of the columns, noting how their detail and design reflected the artisans' skill. The pillars are a testament to the talent of those who worked on Rosslyn Chapel and the deep emotional history that has since become entwined with the site.
The Chapel's Lasting Appeal
Rosslyn Chapel's appeal lies in its stunning architecture, historical depth, and the mystery surrounding it. For me, returning after a decade was a reminder of how these elements continue to captivate visitors, whether they are here for the engineering marvels, the spiritual significance, or the enigmatic carvings. The chapel is not only a place of beauty but also a puzzle that invites exploration and reflection.
As we left the chapel, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration. With my husband's engineer's perspective, I saw the chapel in an entirely new light — as a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship and ingenuity. It was clear that Rosslyn Chapel's legacy, built upon centuries of history, continues to endure and evolve, its mysteries and its stunning stonework continuing to draw visitors from all over the world.
Definitely Worth a Visit
Rosslyn Chapel is not just a place to visit; it's a journey into the past, a puzzle to unravel, and a living testament to the skill, artistry, and mystery that define Scotland's rich heritage. Whether you're drawn to its stunning architecture, its connection to legends and myths, or simply the serenity of the surroundings, Rosslyn Chapel remains a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh. My own return to the chapel, with its combination of personal memories and new perspectives, reminded me why it continues to fascinate so many. For those visiting Edinburgh, a trip to Rosslyn Chapel will leave a lasting impression.
You might also be interested in these articles:
Very interesting post. I am ashamed to say that I live about an hour away from Rosslyn Chapel and have never visited. It is now in my list of places to visit next year.
Thank you for this post!. The chapel has been on my wishlist for a while, and hopefully I'll manage to visit that part of Scotland in 2025.