Edinburgh

Primary traces of settlement in the city area date back to approx. 3000 years BC. It is certain, however, that from a small village Edinburgh remarkably developed and expanded only in the 12th century when it became the capital city of Scotland. From 1437 the city was the seat of the Scottish parliament whose sessions were renewed in 1999, after a break lasting from the act of unification with England in 1707. In the past, Edinburgh was also called "Old Smoky" (Scottish Auld Reekie). Since 1583 - when the first university was established (at present there are four universities: University of Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University, Napier University and Queen Margaret University) - it has been an important educational centre in Great Britain. The city is famous for its numerous annual celebrations, events and festivals, which are known under the working name of "Edinburgh Festival" and take place in the capital of Scotland in August and September. The most famous events of this cycle are: Fringe (arts festival) and Military Tattoo (performances of military bands).