by 
Nelson Monument
The Nelson Monument located on Calton Hill in Edinburgh is a striking structure designed by architect Robert Burn and built between 1807 and 1816 to commemorate Admiral Horatio Nelson who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
The monument is uniquely shaped like an inverted telescope, a testament to Nelson’s naval career. The summit of Calton Hill offers one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh. From its elevated position you can see the Old and New Towns, the Firth of Forth with its iconic bridges to the west as well as the Pentland Hills to the south and County Fife to the north. On clear days the views become even more expansive and stretch as far as Berwick Law and Bass Rock to the east.
Time Ball
Although Robert Burn originally designed the monument he died before its completion, leaving the final work on the pentagonal, castellated base of the building to the architect Thomas Bonnar who completed it between 1814 and 1816. Rising 456 feet above sea level the Nelson Monument is one of Edinburgh’s most notable landmarks.
Its height and prominence made it the ideal location for the installation of a large time ball in 1853. The time ball made of zinc and wood was originally installed to help captains of ships moored in the Firth of Forth to accurately synchronise their chronometers for navigation. The ball drops to coincide with the firing of the one o’clock gun at Edinburgh Castle each day at 1pm precisely, a tradition that continues to this day.
Following restoration in 2009 the time ball is still powered by the clockmaker and remains a historic feature of the monument.
Museum
Visitors can visit a fascinating museum which is located on the ground floor inside the monument. The museum contains a variety of exhibits including displays on the role of the time balloon in maritime navigation and the strategic tactics used by Admiral Nelson to achieve victory at Trafalgar. Highlights include a model of Nelson’s famous flagship HMS Victory as well as artefacts and information about Scotland’s merchant navy and the ongoing work of the Northern Lighthouse Board.
The museum also features a special exhibition dedicated to Charles Piazzi Smith, the Scottish astronomer whose pioneering work on Calton Hill contributed to the development of astronomy around the world. With its rich history, breathtaking views and educational displays, the Nelson Monument offers a unique insight into both Scotland’s maritime heritage and the legacy of one of Britain’s greatest naval heroes.
As well as historical information the monument also plays a role in modern traditions. Each year on Trafalgar Day, 21 October and weather permitting, the famous signal ‘England expects every man to do his duty’ is blown from the tower – a tribute to Nelson’s famous message to his fleet before the Battle of Trafalgar. This annual event keeps the memory of Nelson’s bravery and leadership alive by connecting the past with the present at one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks.
