George Washington Wilson
1868
Edinburgh, from Calton Hill 1

Photographic print
9.6 x 7.8 cm
 
British Library
Shelfmark: 10370.cc.35, Item number: 1
 
G.W. Wilson, Photographs of English and Scottish Scenery:
 
"The metropolis of Scotland stands on the southern bank of the Firth of Forth, about two miles distant from the sea.
 
Its site is generally admitted to be one of the most striking of the capitals of Europe, and the prospects from the elevated points of the city and neighbourhood are of singular beauty. Standing upon the Calton Hill, at an elevation of 350 feet above the level of the sea, and looking towards the west, such a scene presents itself as the eye can scarcely comprehend. From this point, Princes Street, with its ceaseless travellers and countless buildings, is seen to best advantage. In the foreground, the Town and County Bridewell, of the castellated Saxon style, presents a noble picturesque appearance. A little farther to the west stands the Royal Institution and National Gallery; while the distance, upon a lofty rock, the Castle seems to keep watch over all."
 
LL/40184