Old Calton Burial Ground

Old Calton Burial Ground is a historic cemetery on Calton Hill, in the north-east of Edinburgh's city centre. It opened in 1718. Today it is a quiet corner with views over the city, holding the graves of key figures in Scottish history, along with monuments to political reform and to the American Civil War.

How did it come to be split in two?

The cemetery has been in use since 1718. In 1819, the building of Waterloo Place drove a new road through the site and divided it in two. Hundreds of burials were moved to the nearby New Calton Burial Ground. The layout still shows how the ground gave way to a city improvement scheme.

Who is buried here?

The best-known resident is the philosopher David Hume, who died in 1776. His mausoleum was designed by Robert Adam; in line with Hume's wishes the cost was kept modest and the inscription limited to his name and dates. Also buried here are the scientist John Playfair, the rival publishers William Blackwood and Archibald Constable, and the clergyman Dr Robert Candlish.

What is the Political Martyrs' Monument?

This tall obelisk commemorates five political reformers, among them Thomas Muir. In 1793-94 they were tried for sedition and transported to New South Wales. The monument was designed by Thomas Hamilton and completed in 1845. It is easy to spot from the road and stands as a symbol of the struggle for wider voting rights.

Why is there a Lincoln statue in Edinburgh?

The cemetery holds Scotland's American Civil War Memorial, dedicated on 21 August 1893. It shows a standing Abraham Lincoln with a freed slave at his feet, and stands just in front of Hume's tomb. It is described as the only American Civil War monument outside the United States, which makes it a distinctive stop in the Scottish capital.

Is the site protected?

Yes. The burial ground and its monuments are Category A listed, the highest grade in Scotland's heritage protection system.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Old Calton Burial Ground? On Calton Hill, in the north-east of Edinburgh city centre, beside Waterloo Place.

When did it open? In 1718.

What should I look for? David Hume's mausoleum, the Political Martyrs' Monument, and the Lincoln memorial with the freed slave.

Why does a road run through the cemetery? Waterloo Place, built in 1819, split the ground into two parts.

How long does a visit take? Usually about 30 to 45 minutes, especially if combined with a walk up Calton Hill.

Who is it for?

History, philosophy and architecture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a calm pause in Edinburgh. The cemetery pairs well with a walk up Calton Hill, which offers views over the Old Town and beyond. Look closely at the gravestones and monuments: they tell stories of political disputes, science and the publishing trade in the Scottish capital. It is especially interesting for those curious about the Scottish Enlightenment and the history of reform movements. Remember that this is still a place of rest, so visitors are asked to be quiet and respectful.