Appeal launched for Burns Monument

Edinburgh World Heritage has launched an appeal, supported by the Robert Burns World Federation, to raise funds for the restoration of the Burns Monument on Calton Hill. The monument was built in 1831 in honour of the famous poet, and was designed by Thomas Hamilton, who was also the architect for the nearby Royal High School.

David McDonald, Projects Manager with Edinburgh World Heritage said: “The Burns Monument is important as one of the buildings that gave Edinburgh its famous nickname of Athens of the North. Its intricate neo-Greek temple design reflects the ideas behind the Scottish Enlightenment, inspired by the classical world. The monument also sits in a position with a fantastic view of the city, and it would be good to open it up to the public, perhaps even as an outdoor venue for Fringe events”.

Although repairs have been carried out in the past, the monument’s exposed position means that a comprehensive restoration programme is now needed. Asphalt has been used to repair areas of the roof, but this is now cracking and allowing in water. It will be removed and it may be that the stone underneath will need to be repaired. The monument is also covered in ornate stone carvings, some of which will need to be replaced. 

The total cost of the project is expected to be around £350,000.  Donations towards the project can be sent to Edinburgh World Heritage (registered charity number SC037183).  Please make cheques payable to Edinburgh World Heritage and make it clear in your submission that the donation is towards the restoration of the Edinburgh Burns Monument.  Major donors will be honoured on a plaque in the grounds of the monument.

History of the Burns Monument

Originally the Burns Monument contained a white marble statue of Robert Burns (1759 -1796) which is now located in the National Portrait Gallery on Queen Street.  The idea to erect a monument to Burns was first proposed by Mr. John Forbes Mitchell in Bombay in 1812 and expatriates raised a subscription. 

Thomas Hamilton, the architect was appointed as he had already designed the Burns Monument at Alloway in 1820 and the nearby Royal High School, Edinburgh.  Hamilton designed a circular Neo-Greek temple built of Ravelston sandstone.  He did not charge for the design work. The interior decoration and surrounding planting of laurels, hollies and Ayrshire roses were also donated by Mr. Robert Buchan, house painter and Mr. Eagle Henderson, nurseryman. 

The foundation stone of the monument was laid on the 8th of September 1831. The Subscribers Committee looked after the monument until 1839, when it was handed over to the city. At this time it was suggested the internal statue (designed by John Flaxman R.A. in 1824) should be moved due to soot from the gasworks below was affecting the marble.

Restoration work is now underway on the Burn's Monument....read more