Public executions were commonplace in Edinburgh for centuries. Some went to their deaths after committing a crime, others for their religion or beliefs. Almost certainly some who were not guilty of any crime also went to their deaths. Many died on the gallows or under the executioner’s axe or sword, others were burned. Yet more were beheaded by the fearsome maiden an early form of the guillotine introduced to Edinburgh in the mid 16th century. Some high-profile individuals were hung, drawn and quartered with various body parts being sent for display in towns throughout Scotland as a warning to others. The final execution in Edinburgh was George Bryce AKA the Ratho murderer. He was executed on 21 June 1864 following his murder of a young woman. source:trulyedinburgh.com #andythehighlander #highlandertours #scotland #scottishhistory #edinburgh #outlander #glasgow #whisky #history #highlands #scottish #kilt #greatkilt #scottishtourguide #visitscotland #hiddenscotland #tartan #sassenach #edinburgh #beltedplaid #plaid #greatkilt #royalmile