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Big Royal Dig

Holyroodhouse

A view of Holyroodhouse
A view of Holyroodhouse
Photo: Buckingham Palace Press Office
Holyroodhouse was founded as a monastery in 1128 by King David I of Scotland, and the abbey ruins still stand in the palace grounds. Located at the opposite end of the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, the palace became the main residence of Scottish monarchs from the 15th century onwards. James IV had a new building constructed here at the end of that century, to which James V added new structures between 1528 and 1536. These included the north-west tower, which contains the chambers once famously occupied by Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there between 1561 and 1567.

The palace was badly damaged by fire during its occupation by Oliver Cromwell and his soldiers in 1650. Cromwell rebuilt it, but Charles II demolished his efforts after the Restoration and started again. Much of its modern appearance dates to Charles's rebuilding.

The palace was occupied by Bonnie Prince Charlie for a time during the Jacobite rebellion of 1745. Today it is the Queen's official residence in Scotland, and is used for official ceremonies and entertaining.

Time Team's targets
The mound

The mound in the gardens at Holyroodhouse Palace offers a wonderful vantage point for guests at royal garden parties. But what's under it? Why is it there? Time Team intends to find out.



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