Scotland And Its Unicorns - A Love Story

Dear Diary,

Scotland is always full of surprises.

I will always remember the first time I realised what is actually sitting on the top of Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross.

Is it a unicorn?

I had to take a second look. Just to be sure. It’s quite far high up, so maybe it’s not what I thought it was.

This must be some sort of joke right? Clearly, no country would have a mythical creature as their national animal.

Well … Scotland is not like any other country. Haggis, bagpipes, Irn Bru, fried Mars Bars. So why not also a unicorn?

And it’s true, the unicorn is indeed Scotland’s official national animal.

Why a Unicorn?

So, how did the unicorn end up being the national animal? After all, there are plenty of other animals that are associated with Scotland. What about a highland cow or a puffin?

To answer this question we have to go back in time.

Scotland is also known for its love of myths (Nessie …) and legends.

Lots of those stories originated a long time ago when the Celts arrived on the island.

In Celtic mythology, the unicorn is a symbol of purity, masculinity, innocence and power. These proud, untameable creatures are fiercely independent and quite difficult to capture.

Something the Scots, being very rebellious in nature, can certainly relate to in their own history!

So, even though unicorns don’t really exist (or do they?) Scots could always identify with their ideals and what they represent.

The unicorn is also part of the royal coat of arms of Scotland, first used by William I in the 12th century.

In fact, the unicorn was a proper thing in Scotland long before it turned into a pink and fluffy rainbow creature. How cool is that?!

Hang on, why is there a golden chain around the unicorn you might ask? It’s believed that the entrapment symbolises the power of the Scottish kings. They were strong enough to even tame a unicorn.

Places to Spot the Unicorns

You can spot unicorns all over the city and Scotland. You just need to know where to look for them. Same as with real-life unicorns I guess.

Mercat Cross & Monuments

Taking you back to the beginning of my first encounter with a unicorn.

The most common place is probably the mercat cross. Usually found in the town centre squares. Just glance up and there it is. The unicorn proudly represents the nation.

Whenever you go for a stroll in the meadows, stop by the Mason’s pillars and guess what you’ll find on top of it.

Historic Places

Many historic places also feature the unicorn, usually in the coat of arms.

There is one at the gatepost at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, as well as in the Royal Apartments at Edinburgh Castle.

If you visit St Giles Cathedral you’ll find them hiding among the Victorian woodcarvings.

And not to forget the HMS Unicorn. One of the six oldest ships in the world and a popular visitor attraction in Dundee. Of course, with a majestic unicorn figurehead at its prow.

“A wise man never plays leapfrog with a unicorn.”

This old Tibetan proverb again perfectly fits the Scots and their urge to defend their country, always striving for independence.

I’d say Scotland and the unicorn are indeed a match made in heaven!

Oh, there’s also National Unicorn Day, celebrated on the 4th of April. Aye, we never say no to a party …