FREE TOUR: Bonfires of Modernity: Demonologists, Witches and Wizards of Edinburgh
During the 16th and 17th centuries, Europe was plunged into persecution, hysteria, and superstition. Thousands of women were designated witches for transgressing the system they inhabited and executed under the charge of witchcraft. Many had knowledge of medicine, were skilled politicians, or knew how to manage their finances. Scotland was no exception, and on this tour, we will tell you how the process had an impact in Edinburgh, learning about the origins of the Witch Hunt; the North Berwick trials that inspired Shakespeare to write Macbeth; King James, and his studies on demonology; about some witches who brought characters from the Outlander series to life and much more.
We will go through alleys of the Royal Mile, also Calton Hill to learn about the symbolism of the bonfires and the role of the Presbyterian John Knox. At the same time, we will learn about some occultists and finish in the vicinity of the castle to learn about the end of a historical process that claimed thousands of innocent lives.
IMPORTANT - Bring comfortable shoes to climb Calton Hill.
Join our coven!
Duration
2 hs.
Language:
English
Walking Level:
HIGH
Meeting point: Holyrood Palace
Hours: Wednesday to Sundays 6:00 p.m.
Price: Free
What are we going to visit?
Royal Mile
Bakehouse Close
Calton Hill
Edinburgh Castle (exteriors)
St. Giles Cathedral (exteriors)
Toolboth Tavern
. . . and much more
A very interesting and engaging tour. I am now better informed about witches, their history and persecution, the history of Edinburgh and Scotland. All sprinkled with humour. Try it just to learn something different
hazel
Qualicum Beach
Thank you! Best tour I have taken in Edinburgh ❤️
Miroslava
Prague
I highly recommend the witchy tour of Edinburgh! I found it very interesting, packed with stories and facts, all tied to different buildings and places around the city. Our guide, Nathan, was very knowledgeable and funny. I feel like I learnt a lot in a very short amount of time. Would be a shame to pass it up!
Diana
New York