Historic city jail site unearthed

Old Tolbooth was demolished in 1817

The foundations of Edinburgh's 15th century jail, known as the Tolbooth, have been discovered by archaeologists on the Royal Mile.

The Tolbooth has long been known to lie somewhere close to St Giles' Cathedral in the capital's old town but now its actual location has been discovered.

The 400-year-old building was demolished in 1817, having served as a council chamber and a squalid prison.

Among the notorious criminals imprisoned there was Deacon Brodie.

Work on the reconstruction of the road surface between George IV and North Bridge began in January this year.

The archaeological work involved radar surveys in the hope of locating historical buildings such as the Tolbooth and Tyne Gaol.

The £1.5m project is being undertaken to prevent further damage to the road and to avoid any future need for unplanned emergency repairs. The work will be completed by early 2007.

The Tolbooth is laden with history and being able to mark exactly where it lay is a significant step in charting Edinburgh's past John Lawson city archaeologist

The Tollbooth building was demolished in 1817 to widen the road.

To mark the entrance to the jail, the now internationally recognisable Heart of Midlothian stones were laid.

When the road is relayed there will be copper setts to mark the location.

Particular significance

John Lawson, city archaeologist, said: "The Tolbooth is laden with history and being able to mark exactly where it lay is a significant step in charting Edinburgh's past.

"It's one of Scotland's iconic buildings and the scene of many dramatic events in Edinburgh's colourful history.

"Uncovering it gives us the opportunity to interpret the findings and preserve this important landmark."

Cllr Bob Cairns, Edinburgh Council streetscape leader, said: "It's tremendous the works to restore the Royal Mile setts have provided us with an opportunity to learn more about our city's past and preserve it for future generations.

"The discovery of the exact location of the Tolbooth is of particular significance on account of the important role it played in the city's history over the centuries."