The laying of the foundation stone for the National Gallery of Scotland in Edinburgh took place on 30 August 1850, and it was a significant public event.

Here are the key details:

Background:

• The National Gallery was conceived as a home for Scotland’s national art collection.
• The building was designed by William Henry Playfair, a leading Scottish architect known for his neoclassical style, which shaped much of Edinburgh’s New Town.

The Ceremony:

• The foundation stone was laid with Masonic rites by Prince Albert, the Prince Consort of Queen Victoria. He was in Scotland with the Queen at the time.
• The ceremony was highly ceremonial and attended by large crowds, dignitaries, and representatives of artistic and civic institutions.
• A time capsule was placed beneath the foundation stone, containing coins, newspapers, and a parchment with the names of those involved.