Edinburgh plague streets re-open

Last updated at 17:37 22 January 2003


History lovers are in for a treat this Easter as medieval Edinburgh streets, cordoned off in the mid-17th century to stem the spread of plague, are to be re-opened.

The network of historic streets and narrow walkways will open to the public in April.

A £500,000 development is expected to turn the area into one of the city's biggest tourist attractions.

According to local folklore, 400 plague sufferers were left to die inside when the area, known as Mary King's close, was closed 400 years ago.

Around 100 years after the Black Death struck, the Royal Exchange, now the City Chambers, was built over the historic spot.

The recent discovery of new streets was made after workmen in the Royal Chambers knocked a hole through the floor revealing a staircase leading to the close.

Although the attraction was re-opened in 1997, visitors to the Scottish capital will now be able to view some of the best examples of Edinburgh life and architecture through the 17th century. 'It looks at life through the centuries for the people in Edinburgh and we have brought to life accurate and historical information from that time' said a spokeswoman working on the project.

Around 60,000 visitors are expected to attend the attraction. Entrance tickets will be priced at around £7.

Elsewhere in the city, ancient buildings damaged in last year's fires are also set to re-open in April.

The Cowgate area of Edinburgh, a favourite with clubbers and pub-goers, was amongst the worst hit when fire broke out in December.

Council officials confirmed this week that re-development plans were well under way and the area should be fully re-opened by Easter.

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