Edinburgh: Landscapes in Stone

Landscapes in Stone

by Alan McKirdy

An ancient and long-extinct volcano lies at the heart of Scotland’s capital. It roared into life some 350 million years ago and has been a source of fascination since it was first studied in earnest during the Enlightenment by James Hutton, one of the most significant geologists of all time. Many of Hutton’s groundbreaking ideas of how the world works were predicated on the rocks and landscapes of his home city and surrounding area.

This book is a fascinating exploration into Edinburgh’s geological history over millions of years - including the passage of ice during a great freeze that has left an indelible stamp on Edinburgh’s cityscape, the use rocks quarried locally from ancient, now long disappeared seas to create the stunning elegance of Edinburgh’s New Town, and the coal deposits and oil shale which were exploited from the Industrial Revolution to the present day.

48 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2017

Reviews

[Otherwyrld · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ever since I moved to Edinburgh I have intended to read up on its history, and this small book is a reasonable introduction to the geology of the area. The science of geology was pretty much invented by Edinburgh scientist James Hutton, and the geological history of Scotland is one of the most varied in the world.

I fully intend to read more advanced works on geology before moving into the archaeology of prehistoric Scotland.

[Norina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Had no idea geology was this fascinating. I am just planning another visit to Edinburgh due to this book, and this time, I'll hike on 350 million years old dead volcanoes, closely inspect the layering of strata, each representing 50 million years, I'll pay attention to fossilised corals and sea shells...and so much more.