The most beautiful religious buildings Edinburgh

St. Giles' Cathedral has become an icon of the Edinburgh skyline because of its crown-shaped bell tower. The first stones still visible were laid in the 12th century, but most of the building dates from the 15th century. It is the most important place of worship of the Church of Scotland in its capital. It is dedicated to Saint Giles, a Greek hermit who lived mainly in France between the 7th and 8th centuries. Protector of lepers and the lame, he was particularly popular in the Middle Ages, so much so that he became the patron saint of Edinburgh. Inside, don't miss the central pillars, the oldest witnesses of the place, nor the stained glass windows which are impressive. Also worth seeing are the stained glass window dedicated to the poet Robert Burns, the statue of John Knox and the quotation that sums up the character's commitment: "Give me Scotland or I die", the authors' "corner" and the organ. The Thistle Chapel, built in 1911, has a richly decorated ceiling and carved woodwork of great aesthetic quality. For example, an angel can be seen playing the bagpipes. It is also possible to gain height with paying guided tours on the roof (beware, they are quickly sold out!). Volunteer guides are also present to tell you all about the secrets and beauties of the building. Masses are always celebrated in the building (on Sundays at 8, 10, 11.30 and 8 pm) and concerts are regularly organised.

Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see for lovers of art history, esotericism, symbolism, religious enthusiasts and fans of The Da Vinci Code. It will surprise you by the multiplicity of its stories: that of the green man in particular. We learn that the face of the green man is none other than that of Adam, reminding us that we have within us the seeds of good and evil, and that we have the freedom to cultivate them. You will soon understand why the chapel is described as "a poem of stones, erected by the stars" (Thomas Ross) and why Queen Victoria declared it a jewel to be preserved. You will also discover that the place did not only inspire Dan Brown, but that before him, the great Scottish poets had praised it: Sir Walter Scott in The Lay of the Last Ministrel, but also Robert Burns. You will meet the chapel's cat who also has his own story... which will please the children! In fact, they too have their own tour of the chapel with a quiz and dedicated interactive terminals.

The chapel always offers religious services: on Sundays at 10:30 am and, between April and October, masses at 5:15 pm, as well as short prayers at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Warning: Be prepared for crowds, as this is a highly touristy and crowded place. However, the organization and the site are up to the number of visitors: multilingual and interactive visitor center, guided tours, café and store, large free parking.

Nicknamed the Iona of the East, this abbey is located on an island in the Firth of Forth. Inchcolm Abbey was founded as a priory in 1215 by David I, but Alexander I before him had already dreamed of building a place of worship there after taking refuge there during a storm. Surprisingly well preserved, it is one of the best preserved monastic buildings in Scotland. Remarkable objects include a humpbacked tombstone dating from the 10th century, a superb fresco of a funeral procession and an octagonal chapter house (1200s), as well as remarkable stone screens. The cloister is the most complete of its kind in Scotland, creating a moving atmosphere conducive to meditation. From the 14th to the 16th centuries, there were numerous English raids during the various Anglo-Scottish wars. In 1560, the Reformation put an end to its religious activity but the site remained occupied, particularly militarily. The island is also famous for its wildlife, seals and tusks from the First and Second World Wars

One of the most beautiful views is probably the one you get from the water, when the boat docks.

Practical info: Inchcolm Abbey can be visited by ferry from South Queensferry. Two companies serve the island and offer cruises, with or without a stopover on the island: Forth Boat Tours and Maid of the Forth. Count a 3-hour excursion for about £15 per adult, plus the cost of the site visit. Guided tours are available, as well as a quiz to make it more fun.

Founded in 1446, the Rosslyn Chapel has seen its popularity grow since Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code. It also (and above all) inspired Walter Scott's poem The Lay of the Last Ministrel. A guide will introduce you to the many treasures of the chapel. You can discover them with the help of explanatory sheets, free sheets or a paid booklet (in French) inviting you to a rich journey. Meet the famous "green man" and many myths. Indoor photos are prohibited, so as not to disturb visitors in large numbers.

Its three towers dominate the West End skyline and are visible from many places in Edinburgh, including Princes Street. The different phases of its construction spanned from 1874 to 1917 and the cathedral now has some beautiful neo-Gothic features. It is famous for its Paolozzi stained glass windows, Robert Lorimer's crucifix and massive organs. Its choir is one of the most active and recognized in the country.

This church, which had begun renovation work in 1991, is special in many respects. The famous King David, who saw a white stag crowned with a cross, is represented here everywhere, which gives the perfect opportunity to (re)discover the story. It also houses a Second World War memorial chapel where a glass box with Dunkirk sand is displayed in commemoration of the D-Day landings. Finally, it is recognized as the capital's military church and is the one adopted by the Royal Scots (Royal Regiment) in 1983.