Queensberry House, 17th century mansion in Old Town, Scotland
Queensberry House is a 17th century mansion on Canongate in Edinburgh's Old Town, featuring a three-story stone facade with multiple window rows and solid construction typical of its era. The building now integrates into the Scottish Parliament complex as office space for senior parliamentary officials.
Construction began in 1667 for the Duke of Queensberry, whose signature on the 1707 Treaty of Union with England marked a turning point in Scottish history. The building subsequently changed hands and purposes multiple times through the following centuries.
The house stands as a reminder of Canongate's past as a prestigious address for noble families, with its grand stone exterior still visible among neighboring historic buildings. Its journey from private residence through different purposes shows how Edinburgh transformed over centuries.
The house sits on Canongate in the heart of Old Town and is easily reached on foot from major landmarks. Access may be limited as it functions as part of the Scottish Parliament complex, so check conditions before visiting.
Excavations in the kitchen uncovered evidence of metalworking activities that may have connected to the Scottish Royal Mint operations. Such craft workshops were unusual to find in noble households of that period.
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