Mary King's Close is a narrow alleyway located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, in Scotland. It is named after a prominent merchant's daughter, Mary King, who lived there in the 17th century. Over the years, the close has gained a reputation as being haunted by several ghosts. Sadly during the 17th century, a deadly plague outbreak swept across the city, claiming the lives of many residents.
The Ghost of Annie a 17th Century Victim of The Plague
It's during this time one of the most famous ghosts of the close, a little girl named Annie, originated. According to legend, Annie was a young girl who contracted the plague and died in the close during the 17th century. Her ghost is said to haunt the street to this day, appearing to visitors as a ghostly figure and causing them to hear a child crying. The story of Annie's ghost has been passed down through generations and is well-known among locals and tourists alike.
The Benevolent Lady in Black
There have been numerous reports of sightings of the Lady in Black over the years. Visitors to the close have reported feeling a cold presence and seeing a figure in a black dress. Some people have even reported feeling a hand on their shoulder or a gentle touch on their arm, which they believe to be the Lady in Black's attempt to communicate with them.
The Lady in Black is said to be a benevolent ghost who does not harm anyone. Instead, she is believed to be a protective spirit who watches over the close and its visitors. Some people believe that she appears when there is imminent
danger, warning people to be careful and avoid harm.
The 17th Century Ghost of Alexander Hart a Wealthy Merchant
Other ghosts said to haunt Mary King's Close include the ghostly figure of a man wearing old-fashioned clothing, According to local legend, the man is believed to be the ghost of Alexander Hart, a wealthy merchant who lived in the close during the 17th century. Hart was known to be a ruthless businessman that would do anything to get ahead.
However, he was found dead in his home, with no apparent cause of death. Some believe he was murdered by rival merchants.
A Young Boy Drowned in a Well
Another ghost said to haunt Mary King's Close is the ghost of a young boy who is said to have died in the close. It's believed his name was Thomas Robertson, and he was just 10 years old when he passed away. It is said that he was playing in the close when he fell down a well and drowned. Visitors to the close have reported seeing his ghostly figure wandering the alleyways, looking for his lost ball.
A Skye Terrier Named Greyfriars Bobby
There are also reports ofthe ghost of a dog who is said to have been buried alive in the close. His name was Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who lived in Edinburgh during the 19th century. According to reports, Bobby's owner, John Gray, died and was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Bobby was so devoted to his owner that he refused to leave his grave, even after he had passed away. The locals were so moved by Bobby's loyalty that they allowed him to live in the kirkyard, and he became a popular tourist attraction.
When Bobby died, he was buried next to his owner in the kirkyard. Some say that his ghost still roams the close, looking for his master.
Mary King's Close is Still a Popular Tourist Attraction in Edinburgh
Despite its reputation for being haunted, Mary King's Close is a popular tourist attraction in Edinburgh, drawing visitors from all over the world who are interested in its history and legends. The ghosts that are said to haunt the close only add to its eerie atmosphere and make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Scotland's haunted past.