The 'Apprentice Pillar' is famous for its intricate, spiraling floral carvings, which contrast sharply with the other pillars in the chapel.
Carvings of what appear to be maize (Indian corn) exist in the chapel, predating Christopher Columbus's return to Europe and leading to speculation regarding pre-Columbian trans-Atlantic contact.
The chapel contains 110 'Green Man' carvings, which represent a face emerging from foliage and are symbols of rebirth.
The roof is supported by 14 arches, each uniquely carved with distinct iconographic details.
The floor is covered with Victorian-era encaustic tiles that conceal original 15th-century stone flagstones.
A stone box discovered during excavations in the 19th century was found behind a pillar, though its contents remain a mystery.
The exterior walls feature 'musical boxes' or 'cymatic' carvings, which some researchers suggest represent musical frequencies.
The chapel is technically dedicated to Saint Matthew the Apostle.
Rosslyn Chapel, founded in 1446 by Sir William Sinclair, is a 15th-century collegiate church renowned for its highly detailed and diverse stone carvings. The interior features over 100 stone carvings, including depictions of the 'Dance of Death' and various botanical motifs. The structure was originally intended to be a larger cruciform church, but only the choir and part of the transept walls were completed. The chapel underwent a major conservation project between 1997 and 2013 to protect its roof and stone masonry from environmental degradation. It gained significant global fame following its prominent role in Dan Brown's novel, The Da Vinci Code. The basement level houses a small visitor center and exhibition space detailing the chapel's history and construction techniques. The building is constructed from local sandstone, which remains susceptible to weathering.
The view of the Apprentice Pillar from the center of the nave provides the best perspective of the stone carving detail.
Use the provided audio guides or join a guided talk to interpret the complex symbolism of the carvings.
Visit the lower level museum to understand the massive conservation efforts required to save the sandstone structure.
Allow time to walk through the surrounding woodland paths for a view of the chapel's exterior from the glen.
Do not attempt to touch the carvings; the porous sandstone is extremely fragile and oils from skin cause permanent damage.
Photography is permitted inside for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are strictly prohibited to protect the stone.
