Holy Rood History
What is the Holy Rood ?
The history of “Holyrood” refers to both a Christian relic (the True Cross) and the historical buildings and site associated with it, particularly Holyrood Abbey and Palace in Edinburgh, Scotland. The name “Holyrood” comes from the Old English word for the cross on which Jesus was crucified, symbolizing the “Holy Cross”.
The Relic (Holy Rood):
- Origin:
The Holy Rood, or True Cross, is a Christian relic believed to be a part of the cross on which Jesus was crucified.
- Veneration:
In the Middle Ages, the Holy Rood was a significant object of veneration and pilgrimage, with numerous relics associated with it being kept in churches and monasteries.
- Disappearance:
The relic associated with Holyrood Abbey was lost when the abbey was dissolved in 1540.
Holyrood Abbey and Palace:
- Foundation:
The Augustinian Holyrood Abbey in Edinburgh was founded in 1128 by King David I of Scotland. The name “Holyrood” is believed to be connected either to a legendary vision of a cross by David I or to a relic of the True Cross that belonged to his mother, Saint Margaret.
- Royal Association:
Holyrood Abbey became an important administrative center, and the Parliament of Scotland met there on several occasions. It was also the site of royal burials, coronations, and marriages.
- Expansion and Conversion:
Over time, extensive monastic buildings were added to the abbey, and it eventually served as a royal residence. James IV converted the abbey’s royal lodgings into a palace in 1503.
- Mary, Queen of Scots:
Mary, Queen of Scots, lived at the Palace of Holyroodhouse between 1561 and 1567. Her private chambers are still visible in the north-west tower of the palace.
- Ongoing History:
The palace has undergone various renovations and alterations throughout history, including rebuilding efforts in the 17th century under Charles II and further restoration and modernization in the 20th century.
Other Holyrood-Related Buildings:
- Church of the Holy Rude (Stirling):
Another notable building associated with the Holy Rood is the medieval parish church in Stirling, Scotland. It was founded in 1129 and has a long history, including being a site of royal baptisms and coronations.
- Holyrood Church (Southampton):
In Southampton, there is a Holyrood Church that dates back to at least the 12th century, with possible earlier origins.
Holy Rood RC High School in Edinburgh:
Holy Rood High School is a Roman Catholic secondary school situated on the edge of Holyrood Park, near Arthur’s Seat beside Duddingston Village, in Edinburgh.
The school was established in 1971, replacing St. Anthony’s secondary school. It is a Catholic secondary school located in the Duddingston area, near Holyrood Park and St. Arthur’s Seat. The original school building was demolished, and the current building was opened in September 2009.
The school’s motto is “Spes Nostra” (Our Hope).
- Foundation:Holy Rood RC High School was founded in 1971.
- Location:The school is located in Duddingston, near Holyrood Park and St. Arthur’s Seat, on the eastern side of Edinburgh.
- Demolition and Rebuilding:The original 1970s building was demolished, and the current building was opened in September 2009.
- Pupil Base:The school has a current roll of 1120 pupils and 80 teaching staff. Students are drawn from six Catholic primary schools in its catchment area, as well as parental choice from other schools.
