I got off the bus at Princes Street. Princes Street offered spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle. I meandered around the area for awhile taking pictures. Besides views of the castle, there were beautiful gardens and many historic buildings.
Edinburgh Castle
Buildings overlooking the Princes Street gardens
Part of the museum in Old Town
St. Cuthbert's Church, c. 1892-94
"The Call" is a statue that stands in tribute to Scots who died in the First World War. The memorial was donated by Scottish-Americans to honor Scottish soldiers.
Scottish American Memorial, c. 1927
Gardens along wall
Bum was a beloved, 19th-century stray St. Bernard-Spaniel mix in San Diego. Known for his independent spirit, he roamed the city as a town mascot. His bronze statue serves as a monument to the sister-city relationship between San Diego, California, and Edinburgh, Scotland.
Statue of Bum the dog, c. 2007
Wojtek was an orphaned Syrian brown bear adopted by Polish soldiers in Iran during WWII. Enlisted as a private to receive official rations, he famously carried heavy artillery shells during battle. Several prominent bronze statues honor his incredible story, including two in Scotland. The statue of Wojtek serves as a poignant reminder of the close ties between Poland and Scotland forged during World War II. Wojtek died in 1963 at the age of 22 (in the Edinburgh Zoo).
Statue to Wojtek, the Soldier Bear, c. 2017
The large Celtic cross in Princes Street Gardens honors Dean Ramsay, a popular Scottish clergyman. The cross sits exactly over his grave and stands more than 26-feet high. It was erected in 1879. Not sure many other crosses sit in such a beautiful setting.
Dean Ramsay Memorial Cross, c. 1879
Great view of the castle
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Post created 12 May 2026
Post created 12 May 2026
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