The 17th-century Parliament Hall, just off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, with its impressive hammerbeam ceiling, made a fitting location for the celebration, which started off with musical entertainment from the Summerhall Singers.
Speeches followed, with Anne Anderson, Chair of the UK National Commission for UNESCO, congratulating Edinburgh World Heritage and all involved over the last 30 years. Terry Levinthal, Director, Edinburgh World Heritage and Councillor Joan Griffiths, Convener of the City of Edinburgh Council’s Planning Committee, also said a few words.
As well as celebrating the past, the speakers also looked to the future, emphasising the importance of ensuring that the city remains vibrant, inclusive and sustainable for future generations by balancing conservation with innovation.
The event featured displays and information panels highlighting the World Heritage Site's successes and achievements. It brought together people instrumental in its founding and those who have maintained it over the last 30 years.
