A Potted History of Perth
There is no doubt that Scotland has a variety of differing potential destinations for the prospective house buyer, looking to relocate to Scotland.
However, in amongst all of the available options, a jewel of a city that sits on the banks of the river Tay, has become increasingly popular. That city is Perth.
Located in Eastern Central Scotland, with a population of approximately 44,000, Perth offers a unique perspective on Scottish life and its popularity comes from its ability to offer something for everyone.
But what of its history?
Although originally the Scottish capital, Perth has had a long and intriguing history replete with almost every form of cultural event, including battles, assassinations and much more.
Historically in fact Perth as a settlement has been around since prehistoric times, as recent finds have indicated. Its name was derived from a Pictish word for wood or copse and its place as the original capital of Scotland was due to the residence of the royal court.
Perth was granted status as a burgh in the early 12 century, by King David I, and was considered to be one of the most wealthy trading burghs throughout Scotland in the 12th and 13th centuries, in part due to the fact that the burgh residents included guilds of craftsmen.
During the 14th century, Perth became a battleground with subsequent English occupation. Edward 1st of England arrived with troops and subsequently fortified the town with walls, which remained until the town was recaptured by Robert the Bruce in 1312, at which point the walls were removed.
In 1396, another battle ensued with the Battle of the Clans, centred around the North Inch, this battle involved Clan Chattan and Clan Cameron, and was actually a tournament which was aimed at resolving a highland feud and involved thirty men on each side. Won by Clan Chattan, by virtue of the fact that what was left of the opposition fled across the Tay.
Perth’s position as the capital of Scotland came to an abrupt end in 1437, when Edinburgh took over the mantle of Scotland’s capital city. However Perth continued to be an important location in Scotland’s history. The Scottish reformation in the mid 16th century, 1559 to be exact, began with the renowned idolatry sermon by John Knox in the nearby Burgh Kirk of St John the Baptist.
Perth really came into its own, in the late 18th century, when major industry arrived in the town. This marked a pivotal moment as its population grew to accommodate almost 15,000 residents. It became a centre for export with products such as Whisky, Linen and leather being the most frequently exported commodities. This has continued in many ways to the present day.
One of the key reasons for Perth’s burgeoning popularity in past era’s and even today, is its central location. Excellent transport links make it the ideal location in many ways.
What of Perth today? Well its still considered an extremely desirable location with a plethora of property options available. Add to this the favourable property prices and numerous local amenities and its easy to see why many choose Perth as a place to put down their roots.
Ballantynes are esteemed estate agents offering a wide and diverse selection of properties predominantly within the Perth and Edinburgh areas.
Their website plays host to informative advice and guidance and can be found at: http://www.ballantynes.uk.com/
