Lost Edinburgh street uncovered after being hidden behind walls of historic library

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A hidden Edinburgh street concealed behind the walls of the National Library of Scotland has been unveiled by staff for the first time.The narrow passageway was once part of Libberton's Wynd, a steep, narrow street that connected Lawnmarket to Cowgate before it was demolished to make way for George IV Bridge.Although situated in the lower levels of the library and not accessible to the public, some locals seem to already know about this hidden gem, with many sharing memories of similar forgotten routes.Streets like St Mary's Close showcase Edinburgh's history of subterranean architecture, as successive generations built on top of each other to tackle overcrowding and optimise space, according to the BBC.After unearthing the chamber beneath the National Library in the 1990s, officials have widened the door for easier access, and some parts are now used to store water tanks.

The street's history can be traced back to at least the 18th and 19th centuries when it served as a link between Cowgate and Lawnmarket, which was then home to Edinburgh's gallows for public executions, reports Edinburgh Live.

Arches and rooms within the passage are believed to have provided storage in George IV Bridge, and much of the library is constructed on the foundations of buildings that were torn down for the bridge's construction.Local residents have been discussing the lesser-known Libberton Wynd and similar streets in Edinburgh, uncovering the city's rich tapestry of underground structures through a social media post.Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.No one will be able to see who is signed up