This is an archive of the NMS website

Burghs

Find out what life was like in Scotland's towns.

Burghs were Scotland's centres of industry and trade, and also of local government. The first burghs were created by David I in the 12th century. The focus of the burgh was the market place, a crowded and busy area where goods and information were exchanged.

Money and coins

Like the rest of Europe, Scotland developed as a money economy, and coins are an important aspect of the displays in this area - see Cases 3, 4 and 5 and The Edinburgh mint (Case 8).

Town houses

Town houses shows how the signs of successful trade were found in the homes of merchants and manufacturers, many of which contained fine furniture and luxury goods. Although many luxury items, such as glass and Limoges enamels, were imported from abroad, Scottish silversmiths and specialist craftsmen produced high quality work.

Step inside our reconstructed town house, which once stood in the ancient burgh of Kirkcaldy.

Things to see

Explore the Edinburgh house of Mary of Guise, the French mother of Mary, Queen of Scots. Find out about the craft guilds that controlled bakers, butchers, skinners, candlemakers, smiths, weavers, tailors and many others. Learn about imports and exports from Scottish ports.