A hidden Edinburgh street concealed behind the walls of the National Library of Scotland has been unveiled by staff for the first time.
The narrow passageway was once part of Libberton's Wynd, a steep, narrow street that connected Lawnmarket to Cowgate before it was demolished to make way for George IV Bridge.
Although situated in the lower levels of the library and not accessible to the public, some locals seem to already know about this hidden gem, with many sharing memories of similar forgotten routes.
Streets like St Mary's Close showcase Edinburgh's history of subterranean architecture, as successive generations built on top of each other to tackle overcrowding and optimise space, according to the BBC.
After unearthing the chamber beneath the National Library in the 1990s, officials have widened the door for easier access, and some parts are now used to store water tanks.
The street's history can be traced back to at least the 18th and 19th centuries when it served as a link between Cowgate and Lawnmarket, which was then home to Edinburgh's gallows for public executions, reports Edinburgh Live.
Arches and rooms within the passage are believed to have provided storage in George IV Bridge, and much of the library is constructed on the foundations of buildings that were torn down for the bridge's construction.
Local residents have been discussing the lesser-known Libberton Wynd and similar streets in Edinburgh, uncovering the city's rich tapestry of underground structures through a social media post.
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One individual mused: "Not sure why this is being made a story now, but when I was told, my first thought was that this street was featured in one of the early Rebus novels."
"I'm trying to remember which one? Does anyone remember or am I mis-remembering things? ".
Another chimed in with: "I think you might be right, Isn't it the first one (Knots and Crosses? ) that has that chase through the library? ".
Various individuals shared their encounters with Edinburgh's clandestine corridors, one remarking, "These secret streets or lost streets were only recently 'lost'. My Uncle grew up in the 1930s around the Royal Mile and told us how local kids used to play in them."
Additionally, a user recalled: "I remember running cables under the city chambers back in the early 80s and there was a street there."
"It wasn't Mary Kings close as I've since been in that, but it was further uphill and took us almost under the pavement in the Royal Mile uphill of the entrance of the City Chambers."
"Most of it was just abandoned but some of the earlier rooms were used to store ballot boxes etc."
"Long after the fitted electric lights ran out and in an area we were working by torch there was a large unprotected drop to a lower level and you could see more of the same."
Another person remembered: "I visited that part in 1980 with a councillor and a small group of students."
"I was led to understand it was part of Mary Kings Close, though possibly not the part that is open now. It was certainly extensive."
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