The Lorimer Rood
Dominating the view down the nave, high above the podium, hangs the Rood Cross. It was designed by Sir Robert Lorimer to form part of the War Memorial, reminding us that Christ joins us in our sufferings. Christ (whose figure was designed by Pilkington Jackson) is depicted as the suffering servant, surrounded symbolically by the four Gospel writers, with the cross covered in Flanders poppies.
The Paolozzi Window
Designed by the late Sir Eduardo Paolozzi on the theme of Ascension, this window was given in memory of Mary Carmichael, a much loved member of the congregation, and dedicated in 2002. When the sun floods through the window, it transforms the simple stone into a kaleidoscope of colour.
The High Altar and Reredos
The striking reredos was designed by John Oldrid Scott and surrounds a marble depiction of the Crucifixion, with figures of SS Margaret of Scotland and Columba by Mary Grant of Kilgraston.
The Organ
One of the finest organs in Scotland, designed by 'Father' Willis in 1879. Find out more on the organ's own page Here .
The Presence
Hanging in the north aisle, Alfred Borthwick's powerful painting was painted in St Mary's in 1910. It also has its own page Here .
The King Charles Chapel
Dedicated to the memory of Charles I, the founder of the Diocese of Edinburgh, this is a small side-chapel near the Organ. It contains a number of items of historical interest, including small permanent exhibitions on King Charles and the diocese of Edinburgh, and the founding of the American Episcopal Church (the first American bishop, Samuel Seabury, was consecrated in Scotland in 1784), as well as the pew of Sir Walter Scott (from St George's on York Place).
Altarpiece 1
A fine example of the religious work of the artist Sir Robin Philipson PRSA, one of the major figures of twentieth-century Scottish painting.
The Song School
The Song School is the small building beyond Old Coates House to the north of the Cathedral. It was built by John Oldrid Scott in the 1880s for the Cathedral Choir for daily rehearsals and it has been in use almost continuously since then. Its walls are decorated with stunning murals by Phoebe Anna Traquair. Click Here for more information.
The Chapter House
Taking its name from the place in ancient Cathedrals where the Chapter met, this beautiful room is now used as a créche on Sunday mornings, and for other occasional meetings and events. Contact the
Cathedral Office for details.
