The Balmoral War Memorial, unveiled by His Majesty King George V on September 3rd, 1922, stands as a poignant tribute to the men from the local estates who sacrificed their lives during the Great War. The memorial, which later had the names of those from Crathie Parish who fell in the Second World War added to its base, is crafted from the same granite as Balmoral Castle, linking it physically and symbolically to the royal estate.
Designed by Dr. W. Kelly, an expert in Celtic crosses, and sculpted by Sir James Taggart, the memorial is deeply rooted in Celtic tradition. The Celtic cross, a prominent feature of the monument, symbolizes the merging of ancient spiritual beliefs with Christian symbolism, representing a unity of earth and heaven, life and death.
One of the most intriguing elements of the memorial is the inclusion of the swastika, an ancient symbol of the sun, prosperity, and well-being. This symbol, which has been used across various cultures for millennia, derives its name from the Sanskrit word denoting "good fortune" or "well-being." At the time of the memorial’s construction, the swastika was widely recognized as a positive emblem, appearing in various forms, including on the bindings and title pages of Rudyard Kipling’s works.
However, the swastika’s presence on such monuments takes on a more complex meaning due to the events of the 20th century. While originally a symbol of light and luck, its later appropriation by the Nazi regime has overshadowed its ancient connotations, making its appearance on historical memorials a reminder of both its original and later associations.
Your day begins with a visit to the renowned Speyside Cooperage, where you witness the craftsmanship of barrel-making for whisky. Immersed in tradition, you then head to the Royal Lochnagar Distillery near Balmoral Castle, where you enjoy a whisky tasting and learn about its production secrets.
Next, you explore Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s majestic estate, strolling through its gardens and grand interiors. Afterward, you journey to Edinburgh, where an elegant dinner at "The Dome" awaits, followed by a serene stroll through the Old Town. Your day concludes with a restful night at the Virgin Hotel on Victoria Street, where modern luxury meets historical charm.
