The Library Blog

Edinburgh Napier University Library blog. Filled with useful and fun blog articles on using the Library, the University, Edinburgh and many other fun topics.

Category: History (Page 1 of 5)

Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival image of fire on top of a hill with people all around it

Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival

30/04/2026 / / 0 Comments

Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival

Your Complete Guide to Scotland’s Ancient Celtic Celebration

Every year since 1988, the Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival draws up to 15,000 people to Calton Hill for a spectacular celebration marking the arrival of summer. The Beltane fire festival honours an ancient Celtic tradition that began on the evening before May 1st, featuring dramatic performances, sacred fire rituals, and mythological characters like the May Queen and the Green Man. What is Beltane, exactly? The Beltane holiday represents the transition from winter to summer through the powerful symbolism of death and rebirth. Over 300 volunteers now bring this ancient tradition to life, investing approximately 10,000 hours into rehearsals, costumes, and props. read on to explore the festival’s Celtic origins, key rituals and characters, and everything you need to attend.

What Is Beltane? The Ancient Celtic Fire Festival

Origins of the Beltane Holiday

Beltane translates to “bright fire,” referring to the bonfires central to this ancient celebration. The name derives from the Celtic god Bel (also known as Beli or Belinus), whose cult stretched from the Italic Peninsula across Europe into the British Isles. Historically observed in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man, Beltane is one of four main Celtic seasonal festivals, alongside Samhain, Imbolc, and Lughnasadh.

The festival’s roots date back approximately 6,000 years, to when hunter-gatherers across Northern Europe transitioned to agricultural lifestyles. This ancient agrarian calendar predates the arrival of the Celts by millennia. Originally, Beltane was celebrated midway between the spring equinox and summer solstice, falling astronomically around May 5 or 6. Eventually, calendar codification fixed the celebration on May 1, aligning it with other European spring festivals like Floralia and Walpurgisnacht.

Traditional Beltane Celebrations Across Scotland

Communities gathered on hilltops where cattle pastured, cutting a round trench and leaving a central turf platform for the bonfire. The night before, villagers extinguished all hearth fires in their homes. On Beltane morning, priests or community leaders kindled the sacred “need-fire” using ritual methods, with traditional fires sparked from flint or friction.

Cattle were driven between two bonfires or made to leap over flames for purification and fertility blessings before being put to summer pastures. People themselves walked around or between the fires, jumping over flames for good luck, protection, and fertility. Following these rituals, the community relit their household fires from the Beltane bonfire, connecting everyone through the sacred flame.

The Meaning Behind the Sacred Fires

Fire served as purification, cleansing, and protection from supernatural harm, disease, and witchcraft. The flames symbolised the sun’s power, meant to ensure sunshine for people, animals, and plants while burning away harmful influences. These protective qualities extended to milk production, crops, and overall community well-being for the coming year.

Beltane’s Connection to Summer and Fertility

Beltane marked the beginning of the pastoral summer season, celebrated as “first of summer” when livestock moved to fresh pastures. The festival honoured the sacred union of masculine and feminine energies through figures like the May Queen and May King. Like Samhain, Beltane represented a liminal time when the veil between worlds grew thin, making it one of the two most sacred Celtic festivals.

The Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival: How It All Began

The 1988 Revival on Calton Hill

On April 30, 1988, a small group of enthusiasts brought Beltane back to Edinburgh after centuries of dormancy. Angus Farquhar of the musical collective Test Dept led the revival alongside choreographer Lindsay John, dancers from Laban, and Gaelic ethnologist Margaret Bennett. The School of Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh provided academic support.

The revival emerged from political resistance during the Thatcher era. Farquhar sought something beyond the “black/white narrative” of political battles, researching Beltane to create a public ritual that flew in the face of the idea that “there is no such thing as society” (Margaret Thatcher). That first event faced harsh conditions with a £500 budget, pouring rain, and gale-force winds, yet roughly 30-40 volunteers created a procession around the hill that culminated in communal firelighting.

From Arthur’s Seat to Calton Hill

Arthur’s Seat historically hosted Edinburgh’s Beltane celebrations. Organisers originally intended the revival to take place there, but practical considerations prompted a location change. Calton Hill offered better accessibility and centrality while maintaining a connection with nature.

The choice carried symbolic weight. In the 1980s, Calton Hill had a reputation for sex, drugs, and served as a no-go area connected to queer counterculture. Organizers aimed to reclaim that space for the community through celebration.

The Beltane Fire Society and Community Involvement

The Beltane Fire Society was formed in 1988 for the second festival as a registered charity run by democratically elected volunteers. All performers volunteer, joining through word of mouth or advertised open meetings. Senior performers lead workshops covering event production, prop construction, character performance, percussion, and health and safety.

How the Festival Has Grown Over the Years

From a core of a dozen performers and a few hundred audience members, the Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival grew to several hundred performers and over 10,000 spectators by 1999. The event now involves over 300 voluntary collaborators. Originally free and lightly stewarded, capacity constraints and funding requirements led to ticketing in recent years.

Key Characters, Rituals, and Performances

The May Queen: Mother Goddess of Summer

The May Queen embodies the maiden aspect of the Triple Goddess, presiding over the transition from spring to summer. The role passes to a performer for several years, with each May Queen crafting her own costume annually to reflect the festival’s theme. This goddess figure entices the Green Man during the ritual, uniting with him to rule over summer together.

The Green Man: Death and Rebirth

The Green Man represents life growing on earth, an archetypal figure appearing in folklore across Britain. During the ritual, he exposes his winter side to the May Queen in her maiden form, realising he must change to be with her. He surrenders his life, and the May Queen gives him life energy, bringing him back in his new summer form. This death and rebirth mirrors ancient fertility myths where spirits must die to ensure renewal.

The White Women and the Blues

The Blues serve as elder volunteers who hold knowledge and are respected within the community. They provide space for storytelling about the May Queen and Green Man’s narrative, acting as bridges between past and present traditions. The White Women protect the May Queen, representing order and discipline.

Fire Performances and Drumming

Performers, including acrobats, drummers, dancers, musicians, and puppeteers, create the striking display. The Processional drummers lay down beats that drive the march forward behind the May Queen, their rhythms carrying across Calton Hill. Torch Bearers dress head to foot in black with covered faces, trusted to carry purifying flames.

The Procession and Sacred Rituals

The May Queen leads the procession to the hilltop, with drummers alerting witnesses to their approach. The core narrative remains largely consistent, though additional elements emerge as new performers bring their own influences.

The Bonfire and Dawn Celebration

Fire plays the central role in the ritual, with torch bearers carrying flames and fire arches representing gateways between earthly and spirit worlds. The bonfire marks summer’s arrival, with celebrations continuing until dawn.

Attending the Festival

The festival occurs annually on April 30th on Calton Hill. The show begins at sundown and runs until late. Wear warm layers and sensible shoes or go in a full bright costume, but be careful to keep away from the flames. Be aware that the event features semi-nudity and uninhibited behaviour, body-painted characters, and fire.

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The Edinburgh Beltane Fire Festival connects us to 6,000 years of Celtic heritage while creating something entirely new each year. Equally important, over 300 volunteers transform ancient rituals into a living celebration that draws thousands to Calton Hill.

Whether you’re drawn to the mythological drama, the fire performances, or the communal energy, this festival offers an unforgettable experience. Book your tickets early, dress warmly, and prepare yourself for a night where ancient tradition meets modern spectacle under the Edinburgh sky.

The Library

We have lots of resources if you want to learn more about Beltain or Edinburgh. Check out Librarysearch.napier.ac.uk. You can read more about other Celtic festivals here on the blog too. Check out our post on lughnasa 

By Juliet Kinsey

Sources:.

Trimester Two

Merchiston Tower

18/04/2026 / / 0 Comments

Merchiston Tower

In the centre of Merchiston Tower, you will find Merchiston Tower.

It’s a bang in the middle.

Have you ever wondered what’s inside? What’s its history? Want to peek inside?

Let us take you on a brief digital walk through the Tower in the blog post. But before we go any further, we would like to add that you can tour the Tower in person and see its 500 years of history in person for free. Email us at heritage@napier.ac.uk or library@napier.ac.uk. Please bear in mind that we need at least 24 hours’ notice. Group tours are available, but no more than 15 people can attend.

*update*

Tours are available for Friday mornings. If you are interested in a tour but this is not a suitable date, please contact us, and we can rearrange.

History of Merchiston Tower

Merchiston Tower has stood firm for over 500 years. Built in the middle of the 1400s, either by Andrew Napier or his son, Sir Alexander Napier, both of whom served as Provost of Edinburgh and both of whom moved in royal circles.

John Napier (Alexander’s grandson) was born in the Tower in 1550. Specifically, the University is named after John Napier. His inventions and contributions to Mathematics are longstanding, with his most known invention being logarithms. There is a lot of “myth, mystery, and intrigue” (John Napier napier.ac.uk) about the man, and you can read about him in a previous blog post on Edinburgh Napier University’s webpages.

The Tower remained in the Napier family until the beginning of the 1800s. It was then owned by the Merchiston Castle School, followed by the Edinburgh Council. For a while, it was also a storage space for fire hoses during the Second World War. By the 1950s, the Tower was set for demolition. It was in ruins. However, in 1958, a new technical college was coming to Edinburgh. A college that needed a campus. Napier College was formed around the Tower, saved from demolition and beginning a work of restoration. These restorations would uncover ceilings and stairwells that had been hidden for a century.

The hallway ceiling of the Tower now proudly displays the University’s crest and showcases the Tower’s timeline, a nod to the Napier family, Merchiston Castle School, and the Edinburgh Council.

Napier Crest

Inside the Tower

Can’t wait to have a look? Let’s go on a digital walkthrough. And while we have lovely pictures, nothing compares to seeing it in person.

The original great hall stands to the left as you enter. In this hall, you will find a stunning, decorative ceiling that was commemorated during the reign of Charles II, the decorations showcasing the Napier family’s loyalty to the crown. The massive fireplace is thought to be original to the Tower. The north and south windows are original, while the east window dates from the 17th century. During the restoration in the 1950s, a staircase in the thick walls was found.

The once hidden staircase leads to the Boardroom that now stretches across the third and fourth floors. The fourth floor would have been a loft area, home to servants, but it has now been opened up to make the room fell bigger and to properly showcase.

The magnificent Prestongrange Ceiling it dates from 1581. A rare example of a Scottish Renaissance painted ceiling, it was moved from Prestongrange House to Merchiston Tower in 1964 for preservation purposes. The ceiling is filled with art, featuring many motifs from folk plays. Truly Unique!

 

 

 

Prestongrange ceiling

 

Merchiston Tower and John Napier

In 1550, John Napier was born in the tower house. Over 400 years later, the Tower was saved from demolition and restoration work began for a new college to be named after John Napier. Now, it stands proud in the middle of our biggest campus, home to two of our schools: School of Arts and Creative Industries and School of Computing, Engineering & Built Environment.

 

Doors Open Day

On the 28th of September, we opened up the Tower to the public to celebrate Doors Open Day. In our second year running, we were delighted to welcome over 180 visitors.

 

 

If you are interested in visiting Merchiston Tower in person, please get in touch by emailing heritage@napier.ac.uk or library@napier.ac.uk. Tours are available on Friday mornings, but date and time can be rearranged if requested. And are available for individuals or groups of up to 15.

Please note that, due to the steep and uneven medieval staircases, the Tower is not wheelchair accessible.

For more information about the University’s Heritage Collections, have a look at our website.

Read more about the Heritage Collections

 

References

 

Merchiston Tower Edinburgh

The Napier Estate Past and Present

World Art Day in Scotland post image of The Shepherd Boy (1891), Phoebe Anna Traquair, oil on canvas

World Art Day in Scotland

14/04/2026 / / 0 Comments

World Art Day in Scotland

Art does more than decorate walls. It influences how we feel. It inspires us and makes us rethink our views on the world. Art is magic, it is politics, it is hope in the darkness. We have made it since the beginning of time, and we continue to create it no matter what happens in our world.

Edinburgh Galleries

To celebrate World Art Day in Scotland, why not visit some of Edinburgh’s incredible galleries?

The Scottish National Gallery sits right in the city centre. It offers calm, light-filled rooms and world-class collections. You can move from European masters to Scottish favourites in one visit. Clear layouts make it easy to explore at your own pace.

Then, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery shifts the focus. Here, art tells stories through people. The building itself feels dramatic, with high ceilings and rich detail. Meanwhile, exhibitions connect past and present through powerful portraits.

Just a short walk away, the City Art Centre offers something different. It focuses on Scottish art across time. Rotating exhibitions mean there is always something new. It feels accessible and welcoming, especially for first-time visitors.

Next, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art opens things up. Two separate buildings sit in wide green grounds. Inside, you will find bold, contemporary work. Outside, sculptures invite you to slow down and wander.

Just outside Edinburgh, spaces like Jupiter Artland take art beyond walls. Here, installations live in the landscape. You walk between them. You experience them physically, not just visually.

Together, these galleries offer variety, space, and accessibility. So, whether you want quiet reflection or fresh ideas, Edinburgh has a place for you.

Some important Scottish artists of Edinburgh

Phoebe Anna Traquair

Phoebe Anna Traquair (1852–1936) was a leading figure in Scotland’s Arts and Crafts movement. She was born in Ireland and later settled in Edinburgh, where she created some of the city’s most remarkable artworks. She worked across many forms. These included murals, embroidery, and illuminated manuscripts. Her style drew on medieval art, rich colour, and symbolic detail. Her best-known work can be seen at the Mansfield Traquair Centre in Edinburgh. There, her murals transform the space into an immersive, peaceful environment. Today, she is celebrated as one of Scotland’s most important artists. She also stands out as a pioneering woman in a male-dominated art world.

Eduardo Paolozzi

Probably one of Edinburgh’s most well-known artists. His work is everywhere. Eduardo Paolozzi (1924–2005) was a Scottish artist and sculptor, widely seen as a pioneer of pop art. He was born in Edinburgh to Italian parents and studied at art schools in Edinburgh and London. He became known for bold collages and sculptures that mixed popular culture, technology, and mass media. His early work helped shape the visual language of modern pop art. Later, he created large public sculptures and mosaics, including works for London Underground stations. Today, Paolozzi is recognised as one of Scotland’s most influential modern artists, with a lasting impact on contemporary art.

Sekai Machache

Sekai Machache is a contemporary visual artist based in Scotland. She was born in Zimbabwe and raised in Scotland.

Her work focuses on identity, belonging, and representation. She often uses photography and performance, especially self-portraiture.

Her images challenge how Black women are seen in art. They create space for visibility and self-definition.

Machache has exhibited across Scotland, including in Edinburgh. Today, she is part of a new generation of artists shaping a more diverse Scottish art scene.

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Ancient Pranks to Modern Traditions: The Fascinating History of April Fools' Day

Ancient Pranks to Modern Traditions: The Fascinating History of April Fools’ Day

01/04/2026 / / 0 Comments

Ancient Pranks to Modern Traditions: The Fascinating History of April Fools’ Day

April Fools’ Day, known for its playful pranks and practical jokes, has a long and intriguing history that stretches back centuries. So let’s delve into the origins of April Fools’ Day, explore ancient pranks and traditions, discover how it is celebrated around the world, and examine famous pranks from history. We will also discuss the role of media in April Fools’ Day pranks, explore modern-day traditions, and even delve into the psychology behind this mischievous holiday. So, buckle up and prepare to uncover the fascinating history of April Fools’ Day!

Introduction to April Fools’ Day

April Fools’ Day, also known as All Fools’ Day, is celebrated on the 1st of April each year. It is a time when people play pranks and practical jokes on one another, often to trick unsuspecting victims. But where did this tradition originate? The exact origins of April Fools’ Day remain shrouded in mystery, but several theories attempt to explain its origins.

The Origins of April Fools’ Day

One theory suggests that April Fools’ Day dates back to the late 16th century when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. Under the Julian calendar, New Year’s Day fell around the end of March or early April. However, with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, New Year’s Day was moved to January 1st. Some people resisted this change and continued to celebrate the New Year on the old date. These individuals became the target of jokes and pranks, earning them the label of “April fools.”

Ancient Pranks and Traditions

Another theory links the origins of April Fools’ Day to ancient Roman festivals, such as Hilaria and Meditrinalia, which were celebrated around the end of March. During these festivities, people would engage in playful activities and wear disguises, much like the pranks played on April Fools’ Day today. This tradition of playful deception has persisted throughout history, and April Fools’ Day has become the perfect occasion for such mischief.

In medieval Europe, there was a tradition called the “Feast of Fools” that took place around Christmastime. During this feast, normal social hierarchies were temporarily inverted, and commoners would playfully mock and imitate those in positions of power. This topsy-turvy celebration shares similarities with the pranks and role reversals of April Fools’ Day.

April Fools’ Day around the World

April Fools’ Day is not only celebrated in Western countries but also has variations and equivalents in different cultures around the world. In India, for example, there is a festival called Holi, which often falls around the same time as April Fools’ Day. During Holi, people play pranks and throw coloured powders at one another, creating a joyful and mischievous atmosphere.

In Scotland, there is a tradition called “Hunting the Gowk” where people send unsuspecting victims on a wild goose chase. The person being pranked is sent on errands to fetch items that do not exist, such as a “long weight” or a “left-handed screwdriver.” This Scottish tradition shares similarities with the pranks played on April Fools’ Day.

Famous April Fools’ Day Pranks in History

Throughout history, April Fools’ Day has seen its fair share of memorable pranks. One of the most famous examples occurred in 1957 when the BBC aired a documentary about the Swiss Spaghetti Harvest. The program showed footage of people harvesting spaghetti from trees, leading many viewers to call in and ask how they could grow their own spaghetti tree.

In 1996, Taco Bell took out a full-page advertisement in several major newspapers announcing that it had purchased the Liberty Bell and renamed it the “Taco Liberty Bell.” This prank caused a stir, with many people believing it to be true and expressing outrage.

The Role of Media in April Fools’ Day Pranks

In the modern era, the media has played a significant role in April Fools’ Day pranks. News outlets, websites, and social media platforms often join in on the fun, publishing fake news stories or creating elaborate hoaxes to fool their audiences. These pranks can range from amusing and harmless to controversial and even politically charged.

One notable example is the 2013 prank by Google, where they announced the launch of Google Nose, a feature that claimed to allow users to smell scents through their computers or smartphones. While clearly a joke, this prank showcases how influential and creative April Fools’ Day pranks can be in the digital age.

Modern-Day April Fools’ Day Traditions

In recent years, April Fools’ Day has evolved into a day of lighthearted pranks, humorous hoaxes, and playful deception. People take pleasure in pulling pranks on friends, family, and coworkers, often with the intent of eliciting laughter and creating memorable moments. These pranks can range from simple tricks to elaborate schemes, with some individuals spending weeks planning their April Fools’ Day surprises.

Popular modern-day pranks include filling someone’s office with balloons, switching the sugar with salt, or placing a whoopee cushion on someone’s chair. The internet has also given rise to digital pranks, such as fake news articles or viral videos that captivate and confuse viewers before revealing their true nature.

The Psychology Behind April Fools’ Day Pranks

Why do we find pranks and practical jokes so amusing? The psychology behind April Fools’ Day pranks lies in the element of surprise and the temporary disruption of our expectations. When someone falls victim to a prank, their brain experiences a brief moment of confusion before realising that they have been fooled. This sudden change in perception often elicits laughter and a sense of joy.

Additionally, participating in April Fools’ Day pranks can foster a sense of bonding and social connection. By sharing in the laughter and merriment of a successful prank, we create moments of shared experience and playfulness, strengthening our relationships and creating positive memories.

Have fun!

April Fools’ Day may have humble origins rooted in ancient traditions and historical events, but it has evolved into a global celebration of humour and mischief. From ancient Rome to modern-day pranks, this mischievous holiday has captured the imagination of people around the world. Whether it’s a playful joke between friends or an elaborate hoax by a media outlet, April Fools’ Day reminds us of the joy that can be found in lighthearted deception and laughter. So, embrace the spirit of April Fools’ Day, but remember to keep it light-hearted and fun for everyone involved.

Let us know what pranks you have planned, or share some of your most memorable pranks below.

The library

Sadly, we must behave ourselves at the Library, so we will be keeping our pranks for home. If you are interested in finding out more, you can look up some great research on our library catalogue Librarysearch

By Juliet Kinsey

Read more about traditions on the blog here: Scottish New year Traditions

dog in st patricks day hat for blog post St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day

17/03/2026 / / 2 Comments

St. Patrick’s Day

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all our Irish students and staff.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on 17th March. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, but there are parades and parties worldwide due to the large numbers of people with Irish heritage spread across the world.

Source

History of St.Patrick’s Day

Although there are no exact dates of his birth, it is believed that Patrick was born in the Roman-occupied north of England. and that he died on 17th March. His autobiographical work “Confessio” claims that when he was around 16, Patrick was taken from his home in Britain by Irish pirates who took him to Ireland as a slave. There he looked after animals for around six years and converted to Christianity. He fled captivity after hearing a voice telling him he would soon go home. He found passage on a ship and after several days walking he returned home. Following his return, Patrick studied Christianity in Europe-mostly in Auxerre, France and was ordained into the priesthood there. He later returned to Ireland as a missionary, and by the 7th century was already revered as the patron saint of Ireland.

The Irish Potato Famine

There are many people throughout the world with Irish ancestors due to the large numbers who emigrated because of the Irish Potato Famine. It started in 1845 when a fungus ruined around 75% of the annual potato crop, which most of the population relied on for food. Around one million Irish died before the end of the famine in 1852. Another million emigrated to countries such as Great Britain or the United States, and therefore you will find St. Patrick’s Day celebrated in many countries worldwide.

Celebrations

Today descendants of the immigrants celebrate their Irish heritage by dressing up in colourful clothing in green and gold (the colours of the Irish flag), joining parades of pipe bands, cheerleaders, and floats. One of the biggest parades outside Ireland is in New York which held its first parade in 1762. This was a time when the wearing of green was a sign of Irish pride but was banned in Ireland. The parade gave participants the freedom to speak Irish, wear green, sing Irish songs and play the pipes to Irish tunes that were meaningful to the Irish immigrants of that time.

Aside from parades, many pubs and restaurants host events with live music and singing, and you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one in Edinburgh!

By Vivienne Hamilton

Read more on world festivals and traditions with our articles:

Chinese New Year

Scottish Traditions: Burn’s Night

The Ethiopia Timkat Festival,

New Year Traditions from Around the World

Also, don’t forget you can find out more about everything mentioned in this article at Librarysearch.napier.ac.uk

 

 

Image of lady playing the bagpipes for International Bagpipe Day

International Bagpipe Day

10/03/2026 / / 0 Comments

International Bagpipe Day

What comes to mind when you think of Scotland? Whisky? Tartan? Or perhaps it’s bagpipes with their unique sound and playing method. This instrument is synonymous with Scotland’s culture and identity. It is known for rousing tunes at events and parades and haunting laments at funerals and memorials. Although we tend to think of bagpipes as a Scottish instrument, there are actually many variants to be found across the world.

Composition

Bagpipes today exist in many forms throughout the world, but the ones we see here in Scotland consist of the following:

Mouthpiece – This attaches to the bag and sits on the top of it to allow access for the player.

Bag – All other parts of the instrument are attached to the bag. Traditionally, the bag was made of cowhide or sheepskin, but is now often made of synthetic materials.

Drones – Scottish bagpipes have three drones, which determine the pitch of the instrument. They have small holes at the tips to allow the air to escape. By applying pressure to different areas of the bag, players can control the airflow and produce varying sounds.

Chanter – This section of the bagpipes produces the melody. It protrudes from the bag, pointing downwards. The player can use both hands up and down the chanter to produce different notes.

Playing method

Bagpipes are a musical woodwind instrument with reed pipes and an air bag. The player inflates the bag by blowing into a blowpipe. They then squeeze the bag under their arm, emitting air into the pipes to play them. The drone pipes make a continuous droning sound, while the higher-pitched chanter pipe produces the melody. This creates a unique sound that is instantly recognisable.

Origin and history

Prior to the 13th century the origins of the instrument are uncertain, but a Hittite slab sculpture provides visual evidence that bagpipes may have been around at least 1000 years BC. It is thought that they may have originated in Egypt or the Middle East. Starting out with just one drone and a chanter. From there, they appear to have spread through Europe. The Greeks and Romans had the earliest written references. In the 13th century, references to bagpipes appear in Europe. The earliest reference in a British text seems to be in the Canterbury Tales, written around 1380.

Medieval religious carvings and sculptures depict pipers. In 1314 bagpipes were played at the Battle of Bannockburn, but in a different form from today’s pipes. Until the 1500s, a single drone was used, with a second one being added, then a third. Giving us the pipes as we know them today, from the 1700s onwards. Highland clan chiefs employed pipers to motivate their troops in battles. But after the 1745 Jacobite rising, bagpipe playing was banned in Scotland as they were seen as an instrument of war. Played in secret until the ban was lifted, bagpipes were again to find a place in warfare. Highland regiments formed after 1745 revived the tradition of pipers playing their comrades into battle in the early 19th century, and this continued throughout World War One, when they led troops “over the top” out of the trenches onto the battlefield. The death rate amongst pipers was extremely high: it is estimated that around 1000 pipers died in World War I. Pipe bands featuring drummers as well as pipers are still important in the military today, taking part in all types of parades for events and royal visits. Military pipe bands also feature in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which has taken place at Edinburgh Castle esplanade since 1950. Bands from all over the world entertain sell-out crowds during August. Over the years, the show has been enhanced with projections and visual effects, making a truly spectacular presentation.

World Pipe Band Championships

Running since 1947, the World Pipe Band Championships is currently held on Glasgow Green with pipe bands from across the world competing for the coveted Grade One title. Any pipe band can enter and take part in the qualifying rounds to make it to the final and win the competition. Until 1987, the title was won by Scottish pipe bands, but since then, bands from Canada, Ireland and Australia have scooped the title.

Events

Today, some events wouldn’t be the same without a piper or pipe band. Highland games have bands playing between events, and a single piper will play at the highland dancing competition so that the dancers have music to perform to.

At weddings in Scotland, there will often be a piper at the entrance to a church or venue providing music while guests arrive for the ceremony. They will also play as the bridal party emerges from the ceremony and pipe the bride and groom into the wedding reception. Pipers are also called upon to play at funerals, playing laments such as Sleep Dearie, Sleep, which was played at the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. A lone piper concluded the queen’s funeral, playing a lament and walking into the distance through the chapel, creating a very poignant scene. Pipers also often feature in Remembrance Day parades and wreath-laying ceremonies on 11th November each year.

Another event where you are likely to see a piper is Burns suppers celebrating the birth of poet Robert Burns. Taking place on 25th January, there are readings of Burns’s poetry and a meal of haggis, potatoes and turnip. The haggis is brought out on a platter and is piped into the room.

Now, many towns in Scotland have pipe bands which turn out for local parades and events such as gala days, when there are parades along the main street of the town, which will often be led by the town pipe band with floats and children in fancy dress following behind.

Modern music

Bagpipes are usually associated with traditional music, but they have featured in modern music too. Bagpipes feature in Mull of Kintyre by Paul McCartney and Wings, Stingin Belle by Biffy Clyro and It’s a Long Way to the Top by AC/DC.

Taking a very modern twist on the bagpipes are the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, who play rock and pop songs along with traditional Scottish tunes.

If you would like to find out more about bagpipes or traditional Scottish music, you can use Library Search help you do so.

 

 

Christmas in historical Edinburgh

Historical Christmas

18/12/2025 / / 0 Comments

Historical Christmas

We’re just about ready to close up for the Christmas holidays and it’s all we’ve been able to talk about here at the library. Besides thinking about our Christmas shopping, having to meet up with the family. And getting ready for Christmas dinner. We’ve also gave a bit of thought about how Christmas became what it is today, and the different ways that it has changed over the century. So we decided to have a quick look into it today.

Midwinter and the period stretching from the winter solstice (which usually falls around the week of the 21st) up to early January has long been a time of celebration and festivities across many cultures and faiths. Archaeological evidence indicates such celebrations were being held as far back as the Neolithic period (almost nine thousand years ago!) with the speculation being that ancient sites such as Stonehenge served as places to conduct such ceremonies and festivities.

Many religions have used this time as a period to commemorate the births of their respective deities as well, with the ancient Egyptians using this time to mark the birth of their god Horus.
In addition to religious connotations, holding festive celebrations during the period also served a practical purpose of lifting community spirits during the darkest and coldest time of year.

Roman Christmas

It is in such early winter celebrations that we can find the origins of Christmas, with early Christians in the Roman Empire likely drawing inspiration from the Roman festival of Dies Natalis Solis Invicti, (held on the 25th of December), and the Roman holiday of Saturnalia, which was a gift giving holiday in the week up to the 25th of December in honour of Saturn.
At the same time, Christians living to the East of Rome primarily celebrated Jesus on the 6th of January, on an occasion known as Theophany, or The Epiphany, believed to be the date the three wise men visited Jesus.

Medieval Christmas

By the medieval period, the Catholic Church decided to unite both traditions by officially declaring the period of the 25th of December to the 6th of January as being Christmastide, or the Twelve Days of Christmas, with the weeks leading up to Christmas being marked as the Advent period. Which would serve as a time of preparation and anticipation for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.

Early Christmas celebrations would usually involve traditions associated with local pre-Christian winter festivals, especially the festival of Yuletide observed by the Norse and Anglo-Saxon people. To the point that today the name Yuletide is considered synonymous with Christmastime. It’s from these Yuletide celebrations that we get the Christmas traditions of decorating homes using seasonal fruits and plants and Yule log. It is even speculated that Christmas Carols have their roots in Yuletide singing, where it was custom to go door-to-door singing in exchange for gifts and alcohol. Although Yuletide singing is recorded as being a much rowdier affair than Christmas carolling usually is!

Over the centuries Christmas began to grow in popularity as many kings and emperors of Europe chose to be crowned on Christmas Day, and it soon became custom for monarchs and nobles to host lavish Christmas feasts every year.
It was from these Christmas feasts that we start to see some of the modern Christmas cuisine start to emerge, with King Henry VIII beginning the tradition of serving turkey for Christmas dinner shortly after the bird was imported to Britain, as a way of showing off his great wealth. Expensive birds soon became a staple of royal Christmas dinners, although many normal households would struggle to afford such food until many centuries later, instead usually settling for more affordable meat like duck.

As part of these feasts, it was expected that the host would hire a troupe of actors (called Mummers) to stage a play for the entertainment of guests. These plays would usually involve crude humour and stage fights, and would over time evolve into Christmas pantomimes that are still popular in Britain today. Of course, these wouldn’t be the only plays associated with Christmas time. The staging of a Christmas Nativity play depicting the birth of Jesus is a tradition that goes back even further to around the early 1200s when Saint Francis of Assisi oversaw the staging of such a play in Italy, with the practice spreading overtime to other Christian countries.

Back in the day, Christmas celebrations in Britain put a great emphasis on partying and “misrule”, with a member of the party being appointed the Lord of Misrule (called the Abbot of Unreason up here in Scotland) who was responsible for overseeing the party and encouraging drunkenness and unruly behaviour. This tradition was controversial at the time as it was seen as sinful and was outlawed in Britain by the 17th century. The tradition would be forgotten overtime as Christmas changed to become more centred on family and religious observance. This push to change Christmas from a time of drunken revelry to a time of faith and family is also part of the reason why we give each other gifts on Christmas.

1800s Christmas

Because early Christmas celebrations were more focused on partying and feasting, there wasn’t much time spent on the gift giving that we associated Christmas with today. Instead, gift giving was typically split between two different days. On the 6th of December presents would be given to the children in a community in celebration of St Nicholas Day, with adults being given gifts at New Years. The shift of gift-giving to Christmas Eve or Christmas Day came partially due to the Protestant reformation resulting in much of Europe stopping observing most Saint days, and partially the result of the aforementioned push to change Christmas from a period of drunken celebration to a more wholesome time.

One of the few countries in Europe that continued to give gifts on St Nicholas Day was the Netherlands, who brought the tradition over to North America along with stories of Sinterklass, which was what they called St Nick. This would become our idea of Santa Claus by the 19th century, with American poems such as Old Santeclaus with Much Delight and A Visit from St. Nicholas (both published in the 1820s) creating a lot of the popular imagery around Santa and cemented the night before Christmas as being the day he would arrive to give presents to children. The popularity of both of these poems is what helped normalise Christmas Eve or Christmas Day as being the days gifts would be given and opened.

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert Influence

The 1800s would see the popularisation of many other common Christmas traditions still in use today. With Christmas trees first seeing use in Britain in the early 1800s thanks to Queen Charlotte, who brought the tradition over from her home country of Germany. The royal family would continue to decorate a Christmas tree every year and the 1840s saw the publication of an illustration ofQueen Victoria and Prince Albert decorating a tree with their children. This illustration was very popular and is believed to have helped popular Christmas trees in Britain, spurred on by the industrialisation of Britain allowing for decorations to be made quickly and cheaply in large numbers. This same decade also saw the beginnings of the first Christmas cards
The Victorian era also saw the establishment of Christmas as a holiday period from work and education, with workers being granted Christmas and Boxing Day off work, thanks to industrialisation allowing for more time off work and the labour movement of the era pushing for greater reform in work laws.

That took some explaining, but from all this you can see how Christmas evolved into what we have today. It really makes you wonder what new Christmas traditions we might see emerge over the coming years (we’ve already had the Elf on a Shelf start to gain popularity over the past twenty years) and what it will look like centuries from now!

By Matthew Ferrie

We have lots of festive posts to keep you entertain this Christmas.

 

 

 

 

John Napier bronze bust at Merchsiton.

History of Napier

09/12/2025 / / 0 Comments

History of Napier

Ever wonder how the name Napier in Edinburgh Napier University? Ever wonder about the old tower on Merchiston Campus? Or the statue placed by the tower? Well, wonder no more.  We are going to look at the History of Napier.

John Napier

John Napier, eighth Laird of Merchiston, was born in Merchiston Tower in Edinburgh in 1550. He died in Merchiston Tower in 1617, the very tower that stands in the centre of Merchiston Campus.

John Napier is most ‘famous for his contributions to the world of Mathematics. His invention of logarithms decoded previously unexplored complexities within mathematics and inspired contemporaries, as well as future generations, to pursue and realise their own academic achievements in many fields of scientific inquiry. His later introduction of a series of calculating devices ensured mathematics was applied to common use and enabled the development of entrepreneurialism’ (Napier.ac.uk/ourHistory)

Today, logarithms are an internal part of Science, Engineering and Computing.

Napier’s dedication to the Protestant Faith is well-documented and it is suggested by some historians that he considered his book Plaine Discovery of the Whole Revelation of St John as his finest work.  It is his interpretation of the Protestant Christian Bible’s Book Revelation.  A time of change in Scotland including the dethronement of Mary, Queen of Scots and the coronation of James VI.

John Napier also had a number of other inventions including Machines of War and Archimedes Screw (one of the earliest hydraulic machines) and Common Salts.

John Napier died in 1617, nearly 350 years later, Edinburgh Napier University began it’s journey.

Edinburgh Napier University

Our foundations go all the way back to the 16th century. But in the last five decades has seen us grow into a globally renowned institution. Opened our doors as Napier Technical College in 1964, welcoming 800 students. To now, home to over 19500 students from over 140 countries. In 1992, Napier is officially inaugurated as a University. Lord James Douglas Hamilton and Principal William Turmeau unveil the new University sign at Merchiston.

In 2024, Edinburgh Napier wins the 2024 Higher Educational Institution of the Year.

At Edinburgh Napier University, we believe in the importance of making a difference. While we’ve risen in rankings and grown in scope over the years, we’ve stayed true to our heritage as an applied technical institution. For our students and researchers, this means that learning and discovery don’t just take place in the lab or the classroom, it happen in the real world.

We’ve come a long way from 1550.

A timetable of Edinburgh Napier University.

Read about our Heritage

 

International Students Day image of 4 students walking

International Students Day

17/11/2025 / / 0 Comments

International Students Day

As well as promoting diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism, International Students’ Day also acknowledges and commemorates the students who organised a peaceful protest at the University of Prague on 17 November 1939 against Germany’s occupation of Czechoslovakia (now known as the Czech Republic and Slovakia ). On that day, Nazi forces stormed the university; more than 1,200 student activists were arrested and sent to concentration camps, and their leaders were executed without trial. In retaliation, all Czech higher education institutions, including universities and colleges, were closed by the Nazis.

To honour the bravery, actions, and sacrifices of these student activists, International Students’ Day is observed every year on 17 November—the anniversary of the 1939 protests. These tragic events ultimately sparked widespread public outrage and further demonstrations, which would later contribute to the fall of the communist government and the rise of a democratic state in Czechoslovakia.

Today, this international observance represents and promotes academic liberation, unity and the significance of equal access to education worldwide.

Celebrating International Students…

There are approximately over six million international students enrolled in universities across the globe today. While all students can face a range of difficulties and challenges throughout their school, college and university years, international students can often be faced with a high number of challenges and hardships, including visa limitations, language barriers, financial pressures, along with currency differences, and homesickness, which coincides with feelings of loneliness as well. They will often have to leave behind family and travel and live millions of miles away from home to study at university. They may also not have the same or any access to any of the loans or funding options which are made available to home students. International Students Day raises recognition of and acknowledges these difficulties that international students can face throughout their university careers and lives, and the importance of making education affordable and equal for all. It also encourages all educational establishments and fellow students to help create a supportive and welcoming environment for all as well.

At Edinburgh Napier University, we have many support services available and teams which can help and assist you with various fundamental aspects of university life as well as any upcoming assignments and exams. Some of these teams include:

  • Our Finance and Student Funding Team. They can provide advice and support regarding funding access, help when filling out funding application forms, budgeting advice and assistance with how to set up payment plans or pay in full for tuition and accommodation fees.
  • Our International Support Team. Can assist with visa applications and any advice relating to visa types and immigration. They can also provide important documents such as work, travel and graduation letters. Our international support team also recruit international student ambassadors who can talk to new and continuing international students about their own experiences of studying in the UK and provide an insight into university life as an international student at Napier, and helpful advice and tips alongside this.
  • Our Wellbeing and Inclusion Team. Our wellbeing and inclusion team are trained to offer a range of support, services and even a listening ear if there are some aspects of university life you are struggling with, or facing external struggles which are affecting you at university. We offer counselling and mental wellbeing services, advice on changing courses, and free and round-the-clock access to anonymous support services such as TogetherAll. We also have our Keep on Track team, which can support you if you are feeling overwhelmed or unsettled at any point in your university career and life as a student here.
  • Our Library Team and Campus Libraries! Our library staff can assist you with finding relevant resources for your research and upcoming deadlines, help with some fundamental aspects of digital access and printing and support you with any referencing and literature searching queries you may have.

Find out more information as well as contact details for our teams in our My-Napier webpages.

By Rachel Downie

Craiglockhart Remembrance

Remembrance Day

11/11/2025 / / 0 Comments

Remembrance Day

 

Remembrance Day takes place on the 11th of November each year. It is also known as Armistice Day.

 

The Armistice was an agreement signed by the Germans and the Allies to mark the end of fighting in World War I. The signing of the Armistice took place on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month and is still recognised today with a two-minute silence held at 11am on that day.

 

Remembrance Sunday occurs on the second Sunday of November. It is a time to reflect on the service and sacrifice made by those in the Armed Forces, and their families, from Britain and the Commonwealth, who have fought to protect our freedom and our way of life. We also remember the important role of emergency services and those who have lost their lives due to conflict or terrorism.

Memorial Services are held throughout the United Kingdom, bringing together people from different faiths, cultures and backgrounds

 

The poppy has been used as a symbol of Remembrance for over 100 years. It is also a symbol of hope for a peaceful future. During the devastation of World War I, the landscape became fields of mud where very little could grow.  Over time, the countryside healed, and beautiful, bright red Flanders poppies grew in their thousands. The sight of poppies growing in former battlefields inspired Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae to write his now famous poem, In Flanders Fields, after he lost a friend in Ypres in 1915.

 

Click the link to read the poem In Flanders Fields

 

We Will Remember Them

By Sharon McMichael

Our War Poets Collection

 

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