St Columba's-by-the-Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids St Columba's-by-the-Castle |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| 55°56′54″N 3°11′44″W / 55.948314°N 3.195499°W | |
| Denomination | Scottish Episcopal Church |
| Website | stcolumbasbythecastle.org.uk |
| History | |
| Dedication | Saint Columba |
| Architecture | |
| Functional status | Active |
| Heritage designation | Category B listed |
| Designated | 12 December 1974 |
| Completed | 1847 |
St Columba's-by-the-Castle is a church in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. It belongs to the Scottish Episcopal Church. You can find it very close to Edinburgh Castle, on the side of Castle Hill. This historic building is protected as a special "Category B listed building". This means it's an important part of Scotland's history and architecture.
Contents
Building a Historic Church
The church was built between 1846 and 1847. A famous architect named John Henderson designed it. He used a style called "Early English Gothic." This style was popular in England a long time ago. It features tall windows and pointed arches.
Stone from a Queen's Palace
The stone used to build St Columba's came from an even older building. It was taken from the palace of Mary of Guise. She was a queen regent of Scotland in the 1500s. Her palace was located on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.
Inspired by New Ideas
The way the church was designed inside was special. It was influenced by new ideas about worship. These ideas came from a movement called the Oxford Movement. This movement aimed to bring back older traditions in the Anglican church.
Working with Other Churches
St Columba's-by-the-Castle works closely with other churches. It is part of a "local ecumenical partnership" (LEP). This means different churches work together in their local area.
Partnerships for Community
The church partners with Greyfriars Tolbooth & Highland Kirk. This church belongs to the Church of Scotland. They also work with Augustine United Church. This church is part of the United Reformed Church. St Columba's is also involved with "Edinburgh Churches Together." It also joins "Action of Churches Together in Scotland." These groups help churches work together for their communities.
A Festival Venue
Every year, Edinburgh hosts a huge arts event. It's called the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. During this festival, St Columba's-by-the-Castle becomes a performance space. A company called C venues uses it for shows.
See also
- Diocese of Edinburgh
