New Books in History Alistair Moffat, "Edinburgh: A New History" (Birlinn, 2024)
Mar 17, 2026
Alistair Moffat, writer and historian who directed the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and has published over 40 books, guides listeners through Edinburgh’s long story. He traces the city from its volcanic crag and ancient castle to its medieval hills, Enlightenment bustle, planned New Town, and the accidental rise of the Fringe. He also touches on festival origins, urban inequalities, and the return of devolved government.
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Edinburgh Name Origin Reveals Early Power Base
- Edinburgh's name comes from an early leader called Agin and originally meant Agin's fort, showing the city's origins in a person-based stronghold.
- The Gaelic Dun Agin became anglicized to Edinburgh as Anglo-Saxon speakers gained control in the early medieval period.
How Ice And Fire Made Edinburgh's Geography
- Edinburgh's Castle Rock is a volcanic plug sculpted by glaciers, producing a sheer crag and a protective eastward 'tail' where the city developed.
- Glacial movement from Ben Lomond carved the steep sides and left the tail that became the Royal Mile and original settlement.
Power Anchored Edinburgh's Early Growth
- Edinburgh grew from a fortress because a defended stronghold needed supply settlements, so civilian communities formed around the Castle Rock.
- A royal charter in 1124 (David I) began the long process of establishing Edinburgh as a political centre and eventual capital.
