The Nelson Monument on Edinburgh’s Calton Hill was colourfully commemorated as the landmark turns 200.
Celebrating 200 years since the telescope-shaped structure rose into the Edinburgh skyline, the famous memorial was decorated with colourful flags and installed with a commemorative plaque by the City of Edinburgh Council on Trafalgar Day (Friday 21 October).
A 40-piece naval band performed on Calton Hill before a drumhead service was held in front of the Monument.
A new plaque commemorating the occasion was unveiled on behalf of the Lord Provost before a wreath was laid inside.
A two minute silence was observed for those who lost their lives on 21 October 1805 at the Battle of Trafalgar, including Admiral Lord Nelson himself.
The Lord Provost said he hoped the anniversary would remind locals of the story behind the Monument.
He said: “The new plaque will mark the 200th anniversary of the Monument and the city’s hopes for it to stand tall for at least another 200 years to come.
Captain Chris Smith, the Naval Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland, said: “I am delighted to be able to represent the Royal Navy at the 200th anniversary of the Nelson Monument for Trafalgar Day.
“It is my honour to have been invited to join. Where we previously have only used our Royal Marines buglers for the event, this time we’ve brought the whole Band which will add greatly to the ceremonial occasion.
“The Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, which truly broke the mould of naval warfare, crushed the French and Spanish navies and exerted the Royal Navy as the world’s supreme maritime force – Nelson himself died at the battle but was, rightly, revered as a national hero.
“It is fitting that, more than two centuries later, we still pay tribute to this great man and the city’s memorial still stands strong.”
