Chikanma Amadi, 4HLWb
On our school trip to Edinburgh, we had the amazing opportunity to visit the Scottish Parliament – a place where history and modern democracy meet!
The Scottish Parliament has a long and fascinating past. The first parliamentary meetings in Scotland date back to the 13th century, and in 1632 the first dedicated building was constructed at St. John’s Cathedral. After the 1707 Act of Union, Scotland’s Parliament was dissolved, and political decisions were made in London for nearly 300 years. It wasn’t until 1999, after a referendum, that Scotland regained its own Parliament.
The modern Parliament building is very unusual and striking. Designed by Spanish architect Enric Miralles, some parts of the structure even resemble upturned boats, symbolizing Scotland’s connection to the sea and its people. Large windows and a beautiful garden make the building feel open and welcoming, while natural wood from sustainable sources highlights care for the environment.
Inside, we visited the debating chamber, where 129 MSPs (Members of the Scottish Parliament) discuss and vote on laws. Voting is digital, and debates are broadcast live – making it very modern and high-tech. We also learned that young people can vote from 16, which shows how seriously Scotland takes youth participation.
Visiting the Scottish Parliament was both fun and educational. We learned not only about Scottish history but also how a modern democracy works and why citizen participation matters. It was one of the highlights of our Edinburgh trip, and we can really recommend it!
