Legend has it that King David I, son of Malcolm Canmore and St Margaret,
was hunting one day in 1128. His horse was startled by a stag which
appeared from nowhere, and King David found himself hurled to the ground
and in mortal danger of being gored by the stags antlers. In desperation
he grasped hold of them whereupon they miraculously changed into a
Crucifix. This story has echoes in the similar story of St Hubert in
France. That night King David pledged to build an Abbey for Canons devoted
to the Cross.
Holyrood means "Holy Cross"
By the early 1300's there was already a Royal Residence built adjacent
to the Abbey Church. Now, the oldest part, on the left as you look at the
entrance and front courtyard, was built in 1528-32 by John Ayton, master
mason to James V. Later, in the 17th C, the present much extended form was
created during rebuilding for Charles II.
Today the Palace is often used as a Royal Residence, and this means
that it is sometimes closed to the public at irregular times. But if you
do get a chance it is well worth visiting. The interior is fascinating,
both the older Historical Apartments (where Mary Queen of Scots often
stayed, and where her private secretary and confidant Rizzio was stabbed
to death on instructions from her husband, Lord Darnley), and the State
Apartments which are notable for their paintings, decoration,
chimneypieces and plasterwork dating from between the 1600's and 1900's.
William Douglas,
previously Prior at Coldingham,
was Abbot here in 1526 - 1528.
David Douglas was Abbot in 1530 and 1531.
George Douglas, Bishop of
Moray, was buried in the church of Holyrood Abbey.
The children of James
Douglas-Hamilton, 6th Duke of Hamilton were born in Holyrood.
The Dukes of Hamilton are Hereditary Keepers of Holyrood Palace.
Archibald Douglas, Duke of
Douglas, had apartments at Holyrood, where he stayed when Douglas
Castle burnt down in 1758.
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