Have you ever read the best-selling novel, The DaVinci Code, by Dan Brown, or seen the movie adaptation of the book? Rossyln Chapel is the setting for the finale.  Founded in the mid-15^th century, the chapel is famous for its interior of intricate stonework and vibrant stained-glass windows.

Located in the village of Roslin, in Midlothian, Scotland, the Episcopal chapel is still an active place of worship.  It was founded by William Sinclair, but largely abandoned after the Scottish Reformation in 1560.  Centuries later, Queen Victoria took a liking to it during her visit, so she rededicated it in 1860. 

There is much more to the chapel’s history, but fast-forward to the 1980’s, and speculation circulated that the chapel was connected to the Knights of Templar and the Holy Grail, and Freemasonry—something medieval historians say has no basis in fact.

Regardless, the book and movie made the chapel a famous destination for visitors.  It’s worth the visit; the stonework is amazing!

(For all photos, click on the image for a full screen view.)

Although they don’t permit photography inside the chapel (“Please note that there is no photography or video allowed inside Rosslyn Chapel, as this can distract and inconvenience other visitors.”), I discreetly sneaked a few photos when nobody noticed. 

The remainder of the afternoon and evening were free, so Bruce and I took a walk into Old Town and revisited the fabulous National Museum of Scotland and took advantage of the gorgeous day to get this shot from the rooftop terrace:

Next up: UNITED KINGDOM #9: ONWARD TO ORKNEY ISLANDS