Edinburgh Evening News

With its imposing buildings, colourful history, famous graduates and worldwide academic acclaim, Edinburgh University remains one of the Capital's iconic institutions. Founded in 1582, it was the fourth university in Scotland and the sixth in the UK. For decades the university existed in a hotchpotch of Old Town buildings and Georgian townhouses until the early 19th century, when the Old College was built on South Bridge, creating the first campus. But the university was destined for greater things, having already been hailed as the leading centre of both the Scottish and European Enlightenment, and quickly became one of Europe's principal universities, producing an endless stream of talent. So the institution rapidly expanded, resulting in 21 schools, nine faculties and three "colleges" today - the hub of which is at Bristo Square and George Square. Now, the expansion is to happen again. As part of a £150 million masterplan to transform a large part of the city centre surrounding the campus - unveiled earlier this week - the university is also set to undergo its latest makeover.