Canongate

Canongate is a street in Edinburgh, Scotland, forming the lower part of the Royal Mile, the famous succession of streets that make up the spine of the Old Town. It stretches downhill from the top of the Royal Mile near Edinburgh Castle, descending towards the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament.

Historically, Canongate was a separate burgh, founded by Augustinian canons in the 12th century who were granted land by King David I. It served as a royal burgh and a centre of trade and industry for centuries. The Canongate Tolbooth, a distinctive medieval building dating from the late 16th century, stands as a testament to its past significance as a burgh court and prison.

The street is lined with a mix of historic buildings, residential tenements, and modern developments. Many of these older structures retain their character, with narrow closes (alleyways) leading off the main street. Canongate is also home to notable landmarks such as the Canongate Kirk, the parish church of the burgh, and the Queens Gallery, which displays items from the Royal Collection.

Today, Canongate is a vibrant area, popular with tourists and locals alike. It retains a distinct atmosphere from the upper parts of the Royal Mile, often perceived as more residential and less crowded, though still a significant thoroughfare. It continues to be a central part of Edinburgh's historic heart.