The Real Mary King’s Close is one of Scotland’s most unique historic sites. It took its name from one Mary King, a merchant burgess who resided on the close in the 17th century. Due to the building of the Royal Exchange in the 18th century, the close was partially demolished and buried, and was later closed to the public for many years. The Real Mary King's Close now operates as a tourist attraction with guided tours. Beneath the famous Royal Mile, discover the hidden streets, homes and passageways where citizens of Edinburgh lived, worked and died in the 16th and 17th centuries. The Real Mary King's Close is Edinburgh’s only preserved 17th century street, featuring a labyrinth of Old Town alleyways. Tours in these subterranean chambers are led by guides in the character of real people who lived in the close. There are also souvenir shops and a courtyard café. Tours last one hour and are fully guided.