The Scottish Parliament. The source of major debate and controversy all over the great land of Scotland as it decides it's "fate" in September. To be independent or to remain one with England.
A little about the history of the Scottish Parliament and the Scottish Parliament building. As early as 1235, Scotland has had some form of governance preceding over its country. This was once known as a "King's great council". There have been several instances in the past where Parliament has been dissolved, reinstated or shifted power. It's last dissolution being in 1707 when it signed the Treaty of Union with England and joined to become the United Kingdom or Great Britain. In 1979, a motion was made to re-establish the Scottish Assembly, and in 1999 the first Scottish Parliament was elected. The Scottish Parliament is located in Edinburgh, Scotland – at the bottom of the Royal Mile – and is in the capital city of Scotland. Constructed in 2004, the Scottish Parliament building was designed by Barcelona architects EMBT and their partners RMJM Scotland. It was officially opened on October 9th, 2004 in the presence of Her Majesty, the Queen.
The Scottish Parliament is perhaps the most important historical building to visit in Edinburgh because it is currently in the midst of one of the largest debates of its existence since its re-establishment. The possibility of independence from the United Kingdom. The people of Scotland, the “Scotsman” are a proud people. To many, the on-going argument about the possibility of independence is a very heated, passionate thing. To others, their choice is obvious. And to even fewer, the possibility will not change how the everyday world will function. The culture of Scotland is defined like every culture, by its people, its food, its society and traditions. The language, its history, and perhaps most importantly its government.
How does the site fit into your study and understanding of Europe
Because of its current upcoming Referendum to split with England, it is important to visit and reflect upon how the Scottish Parliament works in order to understand the importance of the decisions that they make in September. Already, Scotland is "Independent" in culture, healthcare, religion, and education from England. Understanding the government of the country visited is an important aspect of studying European culture. The thing that I feel I gained the most from this experience is discovering how Parliament works. I did this by talking and interacting with officials and also by observing an actual session of the Parliament during my trip there.
Other highlights included a lovely meal in the Café, wandering through a small exhibition about the history of parliament, taking the “long way” there (it was a lovely day however, so I did not mind –quite- as much), and admiring the unusual and “stylish” architecture of the building itself. I felt that this experience was satisfying and I hope that other Anytime Visits are just as interesting and informative as the Scottish Parliament of Edinburgh, Scotland.
Find out more by visiting: http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/visitandlearn/9983.aspx
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