The Seat of Government

It's been a fantastic day today - blue skies with puffy clouds, and sunshine! It's even been warm in the sun too, which is surprising and raises a smile. So I took a lunchtime stroll down to the Scottish Parliament building. To my eye this is a beautiful building, although I know that it is not without its detractors. It was very controversial at the time of building, not least because of the cost which by the time it was opened in 2004 (3 years behind schedule) had skyrocketed from the original estimate of £40 million to a staggering £400 million. However, here it is, cost and all, and it is a lovely, unique, eccentric building which Scotland can be proud of. It is in a great location, opposite the Palace of Holyrood and on the edge of Holyrood Park. The picture is of the back of the building, and shows the use of stone wood and metal which is repeated throughout the building. The windows are offices, and as you can see, someone is making a claim for an independent Scotland already!

LARGE