Herman Lyon's Mausoleum

Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA

Calton Hill, with its follies, monuments and observatory, not to mention amazing views across the city, is one of Edinburgh's must-see attractions. However, few visitors to the National Monument have heard of Herman Lyon's Mausoleum.

Herman Lyon (or Lion) came to Edinburgh from Prussia in 1788 and bought a burial plot for himself and his family – the first Jewish grave in Edinburgh – on Calton Hill in 1795. The tomb, which has been explored by experienced potholers is reported to be about 3 x 4.5m with a 12m long passage leading up to it. Although the entrance has now been sealed off, the observant walker on the path from the Dugald Stewart Monument to the north-western edge of the walls of the City Observatory (designed by William Henry Playfair in 1818, and today houses the CollectiveGallery) to the Dugald Stewart Monument may notice 'slabs' which are actually the roof of the mausoleum.

Tourists may have heard of the One O'clock Gun which is fired from Edinburgh Castle but the One O'clock time ball, which is raised and dropped from the City Observatory is less well known.

It is on Calton Hill that the Beltane Fire Society hold Beltane and Samhuinn festivals to mark the changing of the seasons.

Flags fly from the Nelson Monument on Calton Hill on Trafalgar Day.

More information about the treasures of Calton Hill can be seen at EWHT