La seconda costruzione più grande al mondo di granito, aggiungo altro?
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Marischal College Aberdeen

4.5
·173 reviews·, United Kingdom

Aberdeen's iconic Marischal College, the world's second-largest granite building, showcases stunning Gothic architecture and rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset)

Magical granite glow

CrowdLow
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La seconda costruzione più grande al mondo di granito, aggiungo altro?

Marischal College Aberdeen

Best Time

Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset)

Magical granite glow

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Aberdeen's iconic Marischal College, the world's second-largest granite building, showcases stunning Gothic architecture and rich history.

4.5
(173 reviews)

"An architectural gem and a must-visit, Marischal College impresses with its grandeur and beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photographers' Paradise

Capture stunning shots, especially during golden hour. Night photography is also a hit!

✨ See the Aberdeen Letters

Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the iconic 'ABDN' letters.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Facade

The Majestic Facade

Broad Street

Marvel at the world's second-largest granite building, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Robert the Bruce Statue

Robert the Bruce Statue

Outside Marischal College

See the iconic statue of Scotland's hero, a symbol of the city's proud history.

Aberdeen Letters

Aberdeen Letters

Near Marischal College

Capture a fun photo with the vibrant 'ABDN' letters, a popular city landmark.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Granite Grandeur

Marischal College is a stunning example of Aberdeen's 'Granite City' heritage, boasting the second-largest granite building globally. Plan your visit to appreciate its intricate Gothic architecture and historical significance. Consider visiting during community events for a unique experience.

Timing is Key for Photos

For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the 'golden hours' around sunrise or sunset, especially when the granite glows. Night photography can also be spectacular, as seen in some drone footage. Check for local events like the Christmas Village for added visual appeal.

Best Times

When
Golden Hour (Sunrise/Sunset)
Why
Magical granite glow
Crowd
Low
When
Christmas Season
Why
Festive market magic
Crowd
Medium
When
During Community Events
Why
Unique cultural experience
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Union Street with a twist 🌪️ #AberdeenDronePilot #AberdeenVidoegrapher #marischalcollege #aberdeen #nightphotography #streetphotography #longexposure #djimini3pro #content #mavic3 #hyperlapse
@gcvideoproductions
5.8K likes • 61.4K views

📸 Photographers' Paradise

Capture stunning shots, especially during golden hour. Night photography is also a hit! TikTok

✨ See the Aberdeen Letters

Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the iconic 'ABDN' letters. TikTok

Love them or loathe them it was great to see the Aberdeen letters at there new location at Marischal College tonight ❤️ #aberdeen #abz #abdn #abzletters #postabdn #visitabdn #abdnisnow #marischalcollege #aberdeentiktok #aberdeentiktoker #aberdeentiktokers #nescot #nescottiktok #nescotland #aberdeendrone #aberdeendronepilot #aberdeendroneservices #getty #gettyimages #gettyimagesphotographer #istoc...
@natalieahood
934 likes • 2.7K views
Exploring Aberdeen, the ‘Granite City’ renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. From the majestic Marischal College, the world’s second-largest granite building, to the charming cobblestone streets of Old Aberdeen, every corner tells a story. A city where tradition meets modernity, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary vibrancy.#aberdeen #travel #uk #scotlan...
jjohnventures
0 likes • 91.2K views

🏛️ Architectural Gem

Appreciate the intricate Gothic design of this massive granite structure. Instagram

🎄 Christmas Village Charm

Visit during the festive season for a magical Christmas market experience. Instagram

In June 2022, St Margaret's had the privilege of being invited to sing at the lighting of the beacon ceremony for Aberdeen in celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee at Marischal College. The girls performed a specially composed song for the Jubilee called 'A Song for the Commonwealth - A Life Lived with Grace'.
stmargaretsschoolforgirls
58 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photographers' Paradise

Capture stunning shots, especially during golden hour. Night photography is also a hit! TikTok

✨ See the Aberdeen Letters

Don't miss the chance to snap a photo with the iconic 'ABDN' letters. TikTok

🏛️ Architectural Gem

Appreciate the intricate Gothic design of this massive granite structure. Instagram

🎄 Christmas Village Charm

Visit during the festive season for a magical Christmas market experience. Instagram

👑 History & Heritage

Learn about its founding and significance as a Protestant alternative university. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(173 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Marischal College for its breathtaking Gothic architecture and its status as a magnificent granite structure. Many highlight its importance as a symbol of Aberdeen and appreciate its role in hosting community events, especially the festive Christmas market. While some note it's primarily an exterior viewing experience, its grandeur and historical significance make it a memorable landmark.

"As a member of Aberdeen Youth Movement and MSYP for Aberdeen Central with whom I volunteer, I often find myself in the halls of Marschial College in one meeting or another but I was most recently present when I along with my Sea Cadet Unit attended a memorial ceremony in remembrance of VE-DAY 80 years.

It was a landmark moment in my and so many lives especially for those who’ve taken part.

The buildings were lit up beautifully and the beacon itself made it that much more transcendent in its appearance.

Thank you to all those who turned out for this event and I look forward to returning to this important Aberdeen landmark soon."

Marco Oosthuizen

"Marischal College in Aberdeen is an impressive building, renowned for its spectacular Gothic architecture, being one of the largest granite structures in the world. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic site not only houses the local administration but also serves as a venue for various cultural and community events. During the holiday season, Marischal College becomes even more special, as it hosts the Christmas market, transforming the area into a magical scene filled with lights, traditional stalls, and a wonderful festive atmosphere. It is a fantastic place where both locals and tourists can enjoy the Christmas spirit in a fairytale setting!"

Cezarina Nicodei

"Don’t know much about the education the college provides, but it surely stands out for its architectural beauty!"

Imran Hossain Bhuiyan (IHB)

What People Like

Stunning Gothic architecture
Impressive granite construction
Iconic city landmark

What People Dislike

Limited interior access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marischal College is centrally located on Broad Street in Aberdeen. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre. Reddit

Yes, it's in the heart of Aberdeen city centre, close to Union Street, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, and other historical sites. Instagram

The exterior of Marischal College is freely accessible for viewing and photography. The grounds and surrounding areas are great for exploring on foot. Instagram

Many visitors enjoy exploring the exterior architecture and taking photos. Some events might offer interior access, so check local listings. Instagram

Yes, there are several public car parks in Aberdeen city centre within walking distance of Marischal College. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to the exterior of Marischal College is free. Special events or tours may require tickets, so it's best to check in advance. Instagram

As a working building housing the city council and part of the university, there aren't specific public opening hours for the entire complex. However, the exterior is always accessible. Instagram

Public tours are not regularly scheduled for the entire building. However, parts of it are used for events and ceremonies, which may offer opportunities for access. Instagram

There is no admission fee to view and photograph the exterior of Marischal College. Instagram

Keep an eye on the Aberdeen City Council website or local event listings for information on ceremonies, markets, or other public gatherings held at Marischal College. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light that enhances the granite's texture. Night photography can also be dramatic, especially when the building is lit up. TikTok

Its impressive Gothic architecture, the sheer scale of the granite construction, and its central location make it a very photogenic landmark. Instagram+1

The main facade on Broad Street is iconic. The area around the Robert the Bruce statue and the Aberdeen letters also offer great photo opportunities. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to regulations. While some videos show drone footage, always check local drone laws and obtain necessary permissions before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full facade. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light or night photography. TikTok

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Marischal College is a significant administrative centre for Aberdeen City Council and also houses parts of the University of Aberdeen. It's a hub for civic life and community events. InstagramReddit

While the exterior is accessible, specific accessibility within the building would depend on the area or event. It's advisable to contact the relevant authorities for detailed information. Reddit

Founded in 1593, it was established as a Protestant alternative to King's College, leading to Aberdeen having two universities. It's a symbol of the city's granite industry. Instagram

Regular public guided tours of the entire college are not common. However, specific events or historical society tours might be organized. Instagram

Take your time to walk around the exterior, admire the detailed stonework, and imagine its historical context. Consider visiting during a special event for a more immersive experience. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, Marischal College is in the city centre, surrounded by numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs offering a wide range of dining options. Instagram

While parts of the building are administrative and academic, there isn't a public cafe typically advertised. However, new establishments like Mount Aberdeen are opening nearby. Instagram

You'll find everything from traditional Scottish pubs to international cuisine, casual cafes, and fine dining restaurants in the vicinity. Instagram

There are public spaces and benches in the surrounding areas where you could enjoy a picnic, weather permitting. Reddit

Exploring Union Street and its side streets will reveal many options. Local recommendations often highlight pubs for traditional fare and cafes for lighter bites. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marischal College is a fantastic visual landmark for families. Kids will be amazed by the sheer size of the building and its intricate stone carvings. The statue of Robert the Bruce outside offers a chance to talk about Scottish history in an engaging way. Instagram The nearby Aberdeen Maritime Museum is also a great complementary visit for families interested in the city's seafaring past.

During the festive season, the Christmas Village held in the quadrangle is a major draw for families, offering entertainment, food, and a magical atmosphere. It's a chance for children to experience the 'Granite City' in a truly enchanting setting. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Marischal College is a dream for photographers. Its status as the second-largest granite building globally, combined with its stunning Gothic architecture, provides endless shooting possibilities. Focus on capturing the intricate details of the stonework, the imposing facade, and the play of light on the granite. Instagram+1

Experiment with different times of day, from the soft light of dawn and dusk to the dramatic illumination at night. The presence of the Robert the Bruce statue and the 'ABDN' letters offer opportunities for iconic shots. Consider incorporating the surrounding urban environment to provide context for the magnificent structure. TikTok+1

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by history, Marischal College is a must-see. Its founding in 1593 as a Protestant university established Aberdeen's dual-university status. Instagram Explore its role in the city's development and its connection to the granite industry that shaped Aberdeen. Instagram

The statue of Robert the Bruce outside the college is a significant historical marker, linking to Scotland's national hero and the city's motto, 'Bon Accord'. Instagram Learning about the building's past and its evolution into a civic and academic centre provides a deep appreciation for its enduring importance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Granite City's Crown Jewel

Marischal College is not just a building; it's a symbol of Aberdeen's identity as the 'Granite City'. Constructed primarily from local granite, it stands as the second-largest granite building in the world, a testament to the region's rich quarrying history. Its imposing Gothic architecture, characterized by intricate carvings and soaring spires, makes it a breathtaking sight. The college was founded in 1593 by George Keith, 5th Earl Marischal, as a Protestant institution, contributing to Aberdeen's status as a city with two universities. Instagram+2

Today, Marischal College serves a dual purpose, housing significant administrative functions for Aberdeen City Council and also being part of the University of Aberdeen. This means it's a vibrant hub of civic activity and academic life. Visitors can admire its grandeur from the outside, and its central location on Broad Street makes it a focal point for exploring the city. The building has also undergone significant cleaning and restoration, revealing its true beauty, a transformation that has even been celebrated online. Reddit

Beyond its architectural and historical importance, Marischal College is a venue for various community events. It famously hosts the Aberdeen Christmas Village, transforming its quadrangle into a festive wonderland with lights and stalls. It has also been the site for important ceremonies, such as beacon lighting for royal jubilees. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the college in a different light and engage with the local community. Instagram+1

Capturing Marischal College: A Photographer's Guide

For photographers, Marischal College offers a wealth of opportunities. The sheer scale and intricate detail of the granite facade are best captured with a wide-angle lens. The building's orientation means that the morning light can illuminate one side while the afternoon light catches another, offering dynamic shooting conditions throughout the day. TikTok

Many photographers recommend visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset. During these times, the granite takes on a warm, golden hue, accentuating its texture and the architectural details. Night photography is also highly rewarding, especially when the college is illuminated, creating a dramatic and atmospheric scene. Drone footage has showcased the building from unique aerial perspectives, highlighting its grandeur within the city skyline. TikTok

Don't forget to include elements like the statue of Robert the Bruce and the 'ABDN' letters in your shots, as they add context and character to your Marischal College photos. Consider the weather; Aberdeen can be moody, and a bit of mist or rain can add a dramatic flair to your images, giving them a distinctly Scottish feel. TikTok