Unicorns in Scotland
Unicorns in Scotland have a special meaning to Scottish culture.
The unicorn is the national animal of Scotland. The magical beast symbolizes innocence, purity, and power.
The unicorn is a significant part of Scottish identity.
Keep reading to learn more about unicorns in Scotland and why unicorns are so highly valued there.
The History of Unicorns in Scotland
Unicorns have been part of Scottish history for centuries. The unicorn appeared in the coat of arms of Scotland for the first time in the 1500s.
Before 1603, the Scottish coat of arms had two unicorns. In 1603, one of the unicorns became a lion, a symbol of England. That’s when King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England. The union of the lion and the unicorn was formed.
Why Are the Unicorns Chained in Scottish Heraldry?
The unicorns in the Scottish coat of arms are chained. Why? Who would want to chain a unicorn?
It is believed that the chained unicorns represent the power of the Scottish kings. They were so strong that they could tame even a unicorn.
Why Is the Unicorn the National Animal of Scotland?
Like the unicorn, Scottish people are willing to fight for their rights. Unicorns cannot be tamed, and the same is true about Scots.
The Scottish people celebrate National Unicorn Day on April 9th.
Where to Find Unicorns in Scotland?
Scotland has a higher unicorn population than any other place in the world. These are some of the best places in Scotland to spot unicorns.
HMS Unicorn
HMS Unicorn is a historic ship in Dundee. As the name suggests, it is a unicorn ship with a unicorn as the figurehead.
HMS Unicorn was built in 1824. It is one of the world’s six oldest ships.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh has a unicorn gatepost.
Stirling Castle
In Stirling Castle in Stirling, you will find the recreation of The Unicorn Tapestries.
Delgatie Castle
There are unicorn statues in Delgatie Castle in Turriff.
St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh
The Queen’s chair in St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh is decorated with the Scottish coat of arms with a lion and a unicorn.
Falcon Square in Inverness
In Falcon Square in Inverness, you will find a unicorn statue on top of a 37ft high sandstone pillar.
The King’s Fountain at Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace is in Linlithgow, Scotland. There is a unicorn statue at the King’s Fountain.
The Mercat Cross in Edinburgh
There is a unicorn sitting on top of the Mercat Cross in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle
Unicorns can be found in front of the National War Museum and St Margareth’s Chapel at Edinburgh Castle.
Have You Seen Unicorns in Scotland?
The unicorn is an essential part of the magical culture of Scotland.
Have you ever spotted unicorns in Scotland? Do you have some tips for places in Scotland that unicorn lovers should visit? Please share in the comments!
Don’t forget to learn about where other kinds of unicorns live!
