Can an unfinished building become a photo hotspot?

👀 At first glance, you might mistake it for the Parthenon in ancient Greece, but in reality, it's the National Monument of Scotland—a forever-unfinished memorial, even jokingly called "Scotland’s Disgrace" by locals! Who would have thought this "failed project" would turn into a📸 super popular photo spot, while carrying a heavy yet romantic history... 🏛 The Story Behind the Monument The National Monument of Scotland was built in the early 19th century to commemorate Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars. At the time, the Scottish people were filled with enthusiasm, hoping to create a structure like the Athenian Parthenon to showcase national pride, as part of the "New Athens Project." But the grand vision met harsh reality. 💸 Why Was It Left Unfinished? Construction began in 1826 with a budget of £42,000 (a fortune back then!), but only half the funds were raised. Three years later, 12 columns were completed, but the money ran out💸. With no further funding, the project was abandoned—leaving what you see today: a "half-finished" structure. No roof, no walls, just a lonely row of stone pillars. 🌅 The Monument Today: An Unexpected Instagram Hit Though incomplete, the monument sits atop Calton Hill, offering one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh! 🎯 Photo Tips: - Shoot from below to capture the columns' grandeur - Silhouettes at sunrise or sunset are breathtaking - Face away from the city to highlight the solitude and epic scale of the monument Nearby, you’ll also find Nelson’s Monument and the Edinburgh Observatory, making the area perfect for a leisurely afternoon hike and photo session. ❤️ Fun Trivia 🏗 Despite being "unfinished," it’s a Category A listed building 📸 Popular for wedding photos, music videos, and fashion shoots 🎭 Artists have proposed adding modern designs to "complete" it, sparking debate 🎨 Often used as a political symbol around the Scottish independence referendum 🧳 Travel Tips ✅ Best time: Hike up before evening for sunset and night views ✅ Gear: Comfortable shoes, windproof jacket, camera/wide-angle lens ✅ Getting there: A 15-20 minute walk from Edinburgh’s New Town ✅ Free entry, no reservation needed 🌟 Final Thoughts In Edinburgh—a city woven with history and mystery—the National Monument of Scotland, though "unfinished," has become immortal in its own way. It reminds us that some beauty is born from imperfection. 📷 If you’ve snapped some great shots, share them in the comments!