From their national dress to their music, Scotland has perhaps the most stunning customs and traditions in the world. It is also home to the most remarkable sights of the British Isles. Scotland draws attention in every way. With its world-famous education system, it also hosts international students from more than 170 countries every year.
SCOTLAND
Scotland is located in the northern part of the island of Great Britain. It is among the countries that make up the United Kingdom, along with England, Wales and Northern Ireland. There is the North Sea on the east, and the England and the Irish Sea are on the south. It also has many rivers and lakes.
Thanks to its rich nature, the number of tourists visiting Scotland is increasing day by day. Offering stunning views to the tourists coming to the country, Scotland also fascinates tourists with its unique culture.
Scottish culture is preserved by the clan system from the 12th century to the present day. In this way, Scotland has preserved its identity for centuries and has managed to maintain its traditions.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF SCOTLAND
Two official languages are used in Scotland. These;
• Scottish
• English
SYMBOL OF SCOTLAND
The symbol of the country is the thistle flower. At the same time, the slogan "Nemo me pes launit", meaning "no one can hurt me with impunity", has become the symbol of the country.
According to a legend, when the kingdom was defended against an invasion by the Danish army, burning thistle bushes are thought to have helped the enemy dodge the attack. For this reason, the thistle symbol is also presented on the national flag of Scotland.
CLAN SYSTEM
The origins of the clan system date back 1000 years. The clan system, which emerged when Scotland was not a nation yet, continues its effects today.
The clan is the extended family and the members of each clan are related to each other by kinship. The reason for the emergence of the clan system is actually that families want to protect their own space.
Events were organized by Scottish clans in 2009 and 2014 to encourage Scots around the world to return to their lands and learn more about their culture. The clans aim to teach and preserve Scottish culture through these events.
SCOTTISH CULTURE
Scottish culture is perhaps one of the most interesting cultures in the world.
THE BAGPIPE
The bagpipe is a high-pitched and wind instrument. It is made of reed. It consists of a double whistle and overalls. It is the national instrument of Thrace, Macedonian, Bulgarian, and Scots.
Bagpipe began to be used for military purposes in the British army in the 1400s. However, its popularity among the Scottish people laid the foundations for its widespread use today.
You can listen to the magnificent sound of the bagpipe at the Military Tatto held in August every year and the Highland Games held in different parts of the country in summer.
HIGHLAND GAMES
The Highland Games are held in the Highland region of Scotland during the summer months. Athletics games, which are a show of power, are included in this festival.
It is possible to come across almost everything about Scottish culture at the Highland Games festival. Clans from different parts of Scotland arrange enchanting performances with bagpipe bands, and dancers dance in skirts woven in plaid tartan patterns.
WHISKEY
For the Scots, whiskey is like the water of life. Whiskey has been the country's favorite drink since the 1400s. For this reason, there are distilleries all over the country.
Scotch whiskey is divided into two according to the number of distilleries used during the production process. Single whiskey is made in only one distillery, while blended whiskey is produced by more than one distillery, that is mixed.
Although Scotland is famous for its whiskey and whiskey distilleries, it is also quite famous for its Scottish beer.
TARTAN AND KIL
Tartan is the name given to a checked fabric woven from wool. Each clan has a tartan pattern. Although many things such as scarves and blankets are made from tartan, the most typical use is kilt.
The kilt is a skirt-like fabric that men wear on special occasions. Although it is thought to be a skirt by most people, it is used as a loincloth.
HAGGIS
Haggis is one of Scotland's traditional dishes. It is a mixture of lamb heart, liver and lung with onions, oatmeal and spices and stuffing into the intestine. It is usually served with mashed potatoes and whiskey.
Apart from Haggis, there are also traditional dishes such as fish and chips, Arbroath Smokie, cranachan, and bannock.
