JK Rowling’s Handprints
Sightseeing attraction | Edinburgh | Scotland | United Kingdom
"JK Rowling’s Handprints" in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a unique attraction that draws fans of the world-famous Harry Potter series as well as history and literature enthusiasts. These golden handprints are located in the courtyard of the Edinburgh City Chambers, right on the famous Royal Mile, and serve as a silent monument to the literary icon J.K. Rowling. They were created in 2008 as part of the Edinburgh Awards, an annual accolade that honors individuals who have brought the city of Edinburgh into the national and international spotlight through their achievements. Rowling received this honor one year after the release of the final Harry Potter book, *Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*, and her handprints were engraved into a stone slab to permanently commemorate her connection to the city.
The handprints are more than just a tourist attraction; they tell the story of Rowling's close relationship with Edinburgh. The author moved to Scotland in 1993 shortly after coming up with the idea for Harry Potter during a train journey from Manchester to London. In Edinburgh, she found inspiration and tranquility to put her visionary world onto paper. Many of the early Harry Potter books were written in local cafes such as the famous *The Elephant House*, while she was a single mother facing financial challenges. She completed her later work on the final book in the luxurious Balmoral Hotel, symbolizing her journey from humble beginnings to worldwide fame. The handprints are a tangible testament to her breakthrough and her bond with the city that she has called "home."
The attraction itself is simple yet impressive. The golden prints are embedded in a square stone slab that bears Rowling's name and the date of the award. Near her hands, you can also find the prints of other Edinburgh Awards recipients, including crime writer Ian Rankin, Olympic cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, and physicist Professor Peter Higgs. This collection of handprints transforms the courtyard of the City Chambers into an outdoor gallery that celebrates the achievements of significant figures. However, for Harry Potter fans, it is Rowling's imprint that holds the greatest allure – a place where they can physically feel closer to the creator of their beloved stories.
The significance of the handprints has also been marked by controversies. In 2020, amid a public debate over Rowling's views on transgender issues, the handprints were smeared with red paint and a Trans Pride flag was placed nearby. This incident, interpreted as a protest against the author, sparked mixed reactions. For some, the red paint symbolized "blood on her hands" and reflected outrage over her statements, while others condemned the damage as vandalism of a cultural heritage. The paint was later removed, but the incident underscores how Rowling and her handprints have become a controversial symbol – both revered and attacked.
The surrounding area of the handprints also adds to the experience. The Edinburgh City Chambers, an impressive building with classical architecture, is situated in the heart of the Old Town and is surrounded by the bustling Royal Mile, which attracts tourists with its historic buildings, shops, and street performers. Nearby stands the majestic Edinburgh Castle, while hidden alleyways like Victoria Street – often cited as inspiration for Diagon Alley – fuel the imagination. For fans, the location is a pilgrimage site that connects them to the origins of Harry Potter, even though Rowling herself has emphasized that many of the popular connections between Edinburgh and her books are more coincidental than intentional. For example, she has denied that George Heriot's School directly served as the model for Hogwarts, despite the noticeable similarities.
For visitors, "JK Rowling’s Handprints" offers an opportunity to delve into the world of literary history. The location is easily accessible and invites you to take photos or simply enjoy a moment of reflection. It is a silent tribute to an author whose works have touched millions of readers worldwide, while also providing a glimpse into her personal story. The handprints are a symbol of creativity, perseverance, and the impact an individual can have on the world – a legacy that remains carved in stone despite all controversies. When visiting Edinburgh, you will not only find a Harry Potter connection in this attraction, but also a glimpse into the soul of a city shaped by one of the greatest storytellers of our time.
