Heart of Midlothian (Royal Mile)

The Heart of Midlothian refers to a mosaic heart built into the pavement of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland, marking the location of the Old Tolbooth prison. The Tolbooth, demolished in 1817, was a notorious jail that served various functions, including a prison, courthouse, and administrative center for the city. It was a prominent and often grim landmark in Edinburgh's history, associated with public executions, trials, and imprisonment.

The heart mosaic is a popular meeting place and a well-known feature for tourists and locals alike. Tradition dictates that spitting on the Heart of Midlothian brings good luck, although the practice is increasingly discouraged due to concerns about hygiene.

The name "Heart of Midlothian" was further popularized by Sir Walter Scott's novel of the same name, published in 1818. The novel, part of the Tales of My Landlord series, tells a fictionalized story inspired by events connected to the Tolbooth and its surrounding area. While the novel’s plot is distinct from the simple geographical marker, it contributed to the enduring fame and cultural significance of the name.

Today, the Heart of Midlothian serves as a tangible link to Edinburgh's past, a reminder of its history of justice, punishment, and the social conditions of earlier centuries. It is a significant point of interest on the Royal Mile, drawing attention and sparking conversation about the city's rich and complex heritage.