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Five quirky Edinburgh buildings to visit for Doors Open Days

Doors Open Days is the country’s largest free festival that celebrates places and stories, new and old. Every September you can explore hundreds of fascinating buildings across Scotland for free.
 
Some buildings open up once a year, and some just once a lifetime.
 
Edinburgh is opening its doors to the public to discover iconic historic buildings, hidden heritage and remarkable stories from the capital city.
 
Here are our top five picks for the event:
 
 
Advocates Library
 
The Advocates Library was founded in 1689 and is housed in Parliament House next to the Supreme Court/Court of Session, beside St Giles. It is the oldest and largest law library in Scotland where Advocates study and research the law to support the justice system in Scotland.
 
Burns Monument – Edinburgh & District Burns Clubs Association (EDBCA)
 
This prominent monument on the slopes of Calton Hill commemorates poet Robert Burns. Monuments in this style were built in ancient Athens to celebrate the poetic arts, and was designed by Thomas Hamilton to house a statue of the bard by sculptor John Flaxman. Burns’ poetry and song will be performed by members and friends of Edinburgh and District Burns Clubs. The Burns Poetry garden around the monument contains flowers mentioned in his poetry.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
 
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is Edinburgh’s oldest purpose-built visitor attraction. Situated at the top of the Royal Mile it offers five floors of interactive exhibits, rooftop terrace and is home to the Victorian Camera Obscura, once owned by Patrick Geddes. Open all year round, early until late and activities for all ages to enjoy.
 
Edinburgh Central Library
 
The capital’s flagship public library has been providing information and resources to the people of Edinburgh since 1890. Our beautiful Victorian building was designed by George Washington Browne and part funded by Andrew Carnegie.
 
Leith School of Art
 
A welcoming charity offering high-quality art education for everyone. From year-long courses to short courses and workshops, their programmes support people at every stage of their creative journey. They believe everyone has creative potential, and are committed to providing an inspiring, inclusive environment where it can flourish.
For the full schedule of events visit doorsopendays.org.uk