This life-sized statue of Charles II was erected in 1685, the year of the king’s death. It’s believed to be the oldest lead equestrian statue in the United Kingdom, and is the oldest statue in Edinburgh. Charles II is depicted donning Roman military garb, wielding a baton meant to symbolize Imperial authority. The statue honors Charles II, a man who came to power during troubled times. His father, King Charles I, was executed at Whitehall Palace in 1649. Though the Parliament of Scotland declare