The Scots were fascinated by Unicorn ages before us. The mythical creature has been a Scottish symbol for centuries. But, why? Let’s discover.
What is a Unicorn?
This is a mythical creature which has mention in age of Babylonia where the locals idolised the Unicorns and from the Indus Valley Civilization where it was incorporated into ancient seals. The unicorns also were featured in ancient Greeks & Romans era.
The Unicorn is a white horse-like creature that has a lion’s tuft for a tail. The unique thing is they have a spiraling horn protruding from their forehead
Why Unicorn is the National Animal of Scotland?
The unicorn is associated with Scotland since 12th century when it was featured on the coats of arms of William I. Come 15th and 16th centuries, the creature got its place on the gold coins. This is how the Scottish royal coat of arms had two unicorns protecting the shield until 1707. Post that when Scotland and England united, the unicorns shared the space with a lion.
The folklore states that “Unicorns are synonymous with purity, masculinity, nobility, power, courage and strength. They also possess enormous healing powers. There’s mention also that unicorn’s horn can be the purifying agents for poisonous waters too.
Scottish History is Intriguing – 15 Best Places to Witness It
- Edinburgh Castle
- Stirling Castle
- Linlithgow Palace
- Lochleven Castle
- Caerlaverock Castle
- Skara Brae
- Borders Abbeys
- Antonine Wall
- Calanais Standing Stones
- Iona Abbey
- Loch Lomond
- Caledonian Canal
- The Royal Yacht Britannia Isle of Skye and the Inner Hebrides
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Riverside Museum and Tall Ship
Plan your visit to this fascinating land with equally interesting tales.