Sacred Arts Festival: Exploring Sacred Space at Magdalen Chapel

Edinburgh 2026

Opened in 1542 as a Catholic chapel for the fashionable area of Edinburgh's Cowgate, the Scottish Reformation of 1560 turned the Magdalen Chapel into the birthplace of Scottish Presbyterianism. Expert guides will relate the story of this fascinating building, explaining the many unusual features it has acquired both as a chapel and as the home of the Hammermen’s Guild. These include the oldest stained glass in Scotland, the famous Deacon’s Chair of 1708 and a spectacular chandelier, the 'essay' of a gifted hammerman apprentice. Organised in conjunction with National Churches Trust.

This is an archived listing from the 2026 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Sacred Arts Festival: Exploring Sacred Space at Magdalen Chapel is by Peter Burman and Ross Burgess, listed under Events in the Fringe programme. It is at The Magdalen Chapel, 41 Cowgate, EH1 1JR, 18 August.

The show is suitable for ages 5+. Entry is free.