Duddingston Kirk
Duddingston, City of Edinburgh
Remarkable Norman stone carving decorates the arch of the original entrance, this kirk has its foundation in the early 12th century although there were additions in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Set between the foothills of Arthur’s Seat and the promenade which gives Portobello its title of Edinburgh’s seaside, is found a key yet often overlooked landmark. A visible indication of the imminent approach to Edinburgh Waverley by rail or by flight the fleeting view of the tower of St John’s is engraved on the hearts of the thousands of residents who have come from far and wide to call Portobello, and the surrounding areas, home. This steeple is a sure sign of homecoming, safe return, belonging, of faith and community. This Neo- Gothic treasure soaring up into the sky is the steeple of St John The Evangelist Catholic Church just a few steps from the very heart of Portobello, a constant connection to the past and the many generations who have lived and loved there. This A listed structure has watched over the people of Edinburgh since 1906 and has overseen the destruction of the old pier in 1917, both the First and Second World Wars, and more recently has stood guard over us during lockdown. A hub for care and support for many in the surrounding area, it is not solely a tower to faith, but a monument to the strength, resilience and shared vision of the entire community. In recent years, the doors of this church have been laid open in welcome, an encouragement to visit the beautiful JT Walford building in its fullness. So, what lies without and within? Local resident and renowned architectural historian Professor Ian Campbell writes: On the East Coast mainline, the tower of St John’s is a landmark heralding the approach of Edinburgh. I first saw it on my first trip to Edinburgh by train and was immediately struck by its distinctive rocket- like shape. It is an enigma, as the obscure, architect J. T. Walford (c. 1832-1908) built nothing else like it. Architecture critic Robin Ward, similarly taken by the beautiful architectural design of this turn of the century gem, described the church as “a powerful space – octagonal pillars with carved angels holding scrolls support the arches; light is beamed in from Gothic clerestories… The chancel glows with stained glass windows (Edward Frampton, artist)” Exploring Edinburgh
