Glasgow, the Scottish Capital – What You Can Expect

Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland. It is also a city rich in Scottish history, and is a popular tourist attraction is well as the home of the prestigious University of Glasgow.  

The city was originally established as a place of religious worship, as it was one of the largest bishoprics in all of Scotland. In the late 12th century, King William I granted the city boroughship, which allowed it trading privileges. As a result, Glasgow grew into a thriving economic community. During this time, the tradition of an annual Glasgow Fair began; this tradition continues to this day. In 1451, the University of Glasgow opened its doors, adding to the city’s prestige by giving it a reputation as a scholarly place as well as a religious one.

Today, Glasgow is the second most popular tourist destination in all of Scotland. It is known for being an excellent retail centre; there are more stores in Glasgow than in other cities in Scotland. Tourists especially like to come in the summer, as Glasgow has moderate temperatures through most of this season. It is best to avoid this city during the winters, which are damp and cold.

In addition to its rich history and its modern shopping conveniences, tourists can enjoy Glasgow’s unique architecture. Most of the city’s buildings were erected during the Victorian era, although there are two medieval-period landmarks: St. Mungo’s Cathedral, built in the 13th century; and the Provand’s Lordship, built in the 15th. Notable structures from the Victorian age include the Glasgow City Chambers, the main building of the University of Glasgow, and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

Most of these buildings were built with red or blood sandstone and were restored to their original appearance after soot furnaces, which tended to dirty the buildings, were outlawed in 1956.

By: Simon Haughtone

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