Glascow

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland, and in its prime it was often referred to as the 'Second Capital'. Glasgow was founded in the 6th century by St Mungo. He built a church there and the town slowly grew around it. Glasgow grew over the centuries and by 1450 it was declared a city. The city gained wealth and importance during the Industrial Revolution due to its iron and steel production. Glasgow grew even more after the Union of Parliaments was signed in 1707 and trade with America made the huge port famous. Glasgow's importance began to decline in the 20th century beginning with the Depression in the 1930's. Today the city is a successful centre of modern technology.

Glasgow offers a full range of entertainment throughout the year. The Royal Scottish Opera, the Scottish National Orchestra and the Scottish Ballet can all be found here. The Mayfest is a three week long festival featuring ballet, art, opera and music. Large Folk Festivals run through June and July and the World Pipe Band Championships are held in August. Glasgow Cathedral was built mainly in the 13th century at the site of the original church built by St Mungo. His tomb can be seen in the Lower Church under an impressive fan vaulted ceiling. One of the cathedral's most splendid features is the 15th century stone screen with impressions of the Seven Deadly Sins carved on its corbels.  In the centre of the city, on the banks of the River Clyde, is one of Britain's oldest parks, Glasgow Green.

The People's Palace Social History Museum can be found there. Collections of Glasgow's art dating from 1175 to the present day are on display.   The Burrell Museum is three miles south of the city in Pollock Country Park. The museum's collection was given to Glasgow by Sir William Burrell, a wealthy industrialist who died in 1958. The collection is massive, including silver, bronzes, Oriental jade, furniture, tapestries, prints, needlework and paintings.

Like the rest of Scotland, the weather in Glasgow is unpredictable and several degrees colder than England in the south of the British Isles. Winters are long and wet, with very cold winds and some snow, with seldom a sign of the sun, but when spring arrives (between March and May) the mild temperatures and colourful flowers in parks and gardens make the city a cheerful place to be. In summer most days start off misty but warm up to sunny, mild afternoons.