Mary, Queen of Scots Chambers

Perhaps one of the most famous monarchs to live at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is Mary, Queen of Scots.

These are her chambers where she lived between 1561-1567.

When you climb the steps up to the north-west tower you enter a world of intrigue, tragedy and murder.

Reached by a narrow, steep and winding staircase, this is the oldest section of the palace.

Built almost 500 years ago, the battlements and fortified walls are typical of a time when kings and queens required protection against their enemies.

The bedchamber is known for its original decorative oak ceiling, painted frieze and incredibly low doorway.

While people were much smaller in the 1500s when this tower was built, Mary grew to be six feet tall.

Just off the bedchamber is the tiny Supper Room, where Mary was dining on 9th March 1566, when she witnessed the murder of her private secretary, David Rizzio.

Killed by her jealous husband, Lord Darnley, and a group of powerful Scottish lords, Rizzio was stabbed 56 times.

It is claimed that the bloodstains from Rizzio's body are still visible in the Outer Chamber where he was left for all to see.

In the Outer Chamber Mary received visitors.

The devout Roman Catholic Queen enjoyed many a debate with John Knox, the headstrong Scottish Protestant cleric.

The oak-panelled Oratory is where she said her prayers, the original ceiling is decorated with the cross of St Andrew encircled by a royal crown.

Also on display is the spectacular Darnley Jewel, one of the finest treasures in the Royal Collection.

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https://www.rct.uk/.../highlights-of-the-palace-of...

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https://ko-fi.com/thetudorintruders

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Mary, Queen of Scots Chambers, Palace of Holyroodhouse ©