West Register House, National archives building in Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, Scotland
West Register House is the national archives building on Charlotte Square in Edinburgh, distinguished by a green copper dome topped with a gilt cross. The structure features a drum supported by columns that forms the distinctive appearance of the building.
The building was constructed from 1811 to 1814 as St George's Church and initially served the prosperous residents of the western New Town. A major conversion to an archives building took place between 1964 and 1970 to accommodate the Scottish Records Office.
This building was originally the parish church for the Church of Scotland serving the western New Town and attracted notable evangelical preachers during the religious divisions of 1843. The church played an important role in the spiritual life of the prosperous residents in this part of the city.
Visitors should note that the building is best viewed from outside at Charlotte Square where the dome is clearly visible. However, researchers who need to access archive materials must visit the nearby General Register House and New Register House near Princes Street's East End instead.
The dome was designed as a smaller interpretation of St Paul's Cathedral in London and marks the visual endpoint of the George Street vista. This design choice was intentional, creating a focal point for one of the New Town's most important thoroughfares.
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