The Heart of Midlothian

The Heart of Midlothian is a historic stone plaque marking the site of the Old Tolbooth prison in Edinburgh, Scotland, which was notorious for housing prisoners in medieval times. It also refers to a 19th-century novel by Sir Walter Scott that uses the symbol of the heart to explore themes of Scottish identity, justice, and morality. The term embodies both Edinburgh’s medieval history and Scottish cultural pride, serving as a reminder of the city’s past struggles, legal history, and the enduring spirit reflected in Scott’s storytelling.