Exploring the Irresistible Charms of Glasgow, Scotland
The irresistible charms of Glasgow! Nestled along the banks of the River Clyde lies one of Scotland’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities – Glasgow. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Edinburgh, Glasgow holds its own unique allure, offering visitors a delightful blend of history, art, and modernity. My daughter and I took in all three!
My daughter, Ally, goes to Glasgow once a year for business meetings. What a great job that is, going to Scotland once a year! Last year I told her I was going to go in 2024, so we planned a few days of exploration before her meetings began. We stayed at the Hilton Glasgow, a perfect location. Glasgow is one of the friendliest cities I’ve ever been to, the people are warm and inviting.
A Tapestry of History
Steeped in history, Glasgow boasts a rich tapestry of architectural marvels and historical landmarks. From the imposing Glasgow Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, to the elegant George Square adorned with statues of historical figures, the city’s streets are a living testament to its storied past. The University of Glasgow is also incredibly old and beautiful, and is home to the Cloisters, a place I’m sure you’ll know if you are a Harry Potter fan!
The Glasgow Cathedral is the only medieval cathedral on mainland Scotland that survived the 1560 Protestant Reformation. St Mungo built a monastic cell on the site in 614 AD. I’m a history nut but I won’t bore you with the details, but believe me, the cathedral is old! Especially the Lower Church. As awesome as it was, I could only do a single lap, because I could not catch my breath. Ally and I had an unusually sunny and warm visit, and everyone was sneezing and coughing with allergies. The lower church had a low ceiling and for some reason, I had to get up to the cathedral to breathe. For a lover of history and old buildings the cathedral cannot be missed.
The University of Glasgow is also a must see. Begun in 1451, the university is in the top 100 universities of the world. It is the fourth oldest university in the English speaking world. The history of the medical school is quite impressive, and also on the Haunted Tours for various reasons. My daughter and I marvelled at the beauty of the school, and of the Lion and Unicorn Staircase which has symbolic importance. The Lion is England, and the Unicorn is Scottish, both can be found on the royal arms of both Scotland and England, but the lion is on top. Hence the nursery rhyme:
The lion and the unicorn
Were fighting for the crown
The lion beat the unicorn
All around the town.
One could argue, of course, that Scotland won in the end as it is the Scottish Stuarts (Stewart) who ended up with the English throne!
Cultural Oasis
Art enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise in Glasgow. The city is home to world-class museums and galleries, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which houses an impressive collection ranging from fine art to natural history. Kelvingrove also has a massive, incredibly beautiful organ, the sound fills the museum at 1pm. As you can tell, the charms of Glasgow are numberless!
Glasgow’s Fish Symbol
The fish with a ring in its mouth is a symbol on the coat of arms of Glasgow, Scotland. The fish represents the story of Saint Mungo retrieving a lost ring from the mouth of a fish in the River Clyde. The ring belonged to Queen Languoreth of Strathclyde, who had been given it as a gift by her husband, King Riderch. However, the queen gave the ring to a knight, who then lost it. The king suspected his wife of infidelity and demanded to see the ring, but when she couldn’t produce it, he threw her in prison and sentenced her to death. Queen Languoreth then asked Saint Mungo for help, and he had a messenger catch a fish from the river, where the ring was miraculously found. The ring allowed the queen to clear her name. On the coat of arms, Let Glasgow Flourish!
https://www.heraldry-wiki.com/wiki/File:Glasgowc.jpg#file
Warm Hospitality
What truly sets Glasgow apart is its warm and welcoming spirit. Known for its friendly locals, or “Weegies,” the city exudes a sense of community that instantly makes visitors feel at home. Strike up a conversation with a stranger in a cozy pub or join in the festivities during one of the city’s many cultural celebrations, and you’ll understand why Glasgow leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Conclusion
Glasgow is a city of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovation. Whether you’re strolling along the cobbled streets of the Old Town or marveling at the sleek architecture of the Riverside Museum, Glasgow captivates at every turn. So pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting Scottish city. Glasgow awaits, ready to enchant you with its charm and hospitality. And take your tours with Rabbies, they are the best in small group tours!
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