Hidden passageway reveals Edinburgh's forgotten street history

In the heart of Edinburgh, a hidden passageway provides a rare glimpse into the city's past. This corridor, known as The Void, was discovered by library officials in the 1990s when they broke through a wall behind some filing cabinets. They unearthed a series of arches and chambers believed to have once served as storage beneath the George IV Bridge. This area traces its roots back to Libberton's Wynd, a street that was bustling with activity until its demolition in the 1830s to facilitate the construction of the bridge connecting the Royal Mile to the south side of the city. Historical records indicate that Libberton's Wynd had various shops and services, including merchants, barbers, and hosiers, contributing to a vibrant local economy. The discovery of The Void has allowed researchers to explore maps and documents that help reconstruct an atmospheric image of the neighborhood prior to the bridge's construction and the subsequent establishment of the National Library of Scotland on top of it. These remnants offer a fascinating insight into the daily lives and businesses that thrived in the Old Town centuries ago, highlighting how historical urban transformations have shaped the present landscape of Edinburgh.