Mons Meg Cannon

 Introduction

This evening, I am posting a video, images and comment on one of the most famous cannons in Scotland, ‘Mons Meg’. This 6 ton monster, which dates dates from 1457, is located at Edinburgh Castle and proves very popular with the tourists as a backdrop for photo shoots.

 

Information on Mons Meg 

  • The names ‘Mons’ reflects its origins at Mons in Belgium whilst ‘Meg’ is an abbreviation for Margaret.
  • The cannon was gifted to King James II (of Scotland) but its weight militated against practical use in mobile warfare and the artillery piece was retired in 1650.
  • The cannon was cutting edge military technology of it's day, roughly comparable with today's stealth bomber.
  • Firing range was an incredible two miles. 
  • The mere presence (or threat of it's presence) could intimidate siege targets into submission. The cannon was used in conflicts with Crookston Castle, Dumbarton Castle and Norham Castle.
  • Manoeuvrability was restricted by the cannon's sheer size and weight. Typically, a team of oxen would move about 3 miles per day. 
  • After 75 years in England the cannon was returned to Edinburgh Castle in 1829 where it has remained ever since.

 Short Video Clip of Mons Meg

 

One of the many interesting sites at Edinburgh Castle. 

More information

Information on Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland's history and much more can be found in the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland. ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. The book is also available via Kindle.

 


 

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