During the Middle Ages Glasgow had become relatively populous and the city operated a weekly market and an annual fair. Early citizens of this city were quite industrious and created a community of craftsmen. Major industries at the time were wool, which was skillfully cleaned and thickened, there were skinners and tanners and leather workers. As in any settlement the town also had a variety of bakers and butchers. The population at the time was near 1,500, but it was not of primary importance in Scotland. There were many other larger, and more prosperous cities in the region, and thus Glasgow would have to wait to claim her stake.

During the beginning of the 15th century the people of the city worked hard to produce their goods and create a successful economy. In 1451 Glasgow was finally recognized when the Pope Nicholas V granted permission to the city of Glasgow to construct a university. At that time it was intended for the use of the Clergy of the Cathedral, it was the esteemed graduates from this institution that would propel the city''s reputation for excellence, and bring continued success for years to come. But issues regarding religion would be thrust in the forefront of society when a surge of Protestant movements swept across Europe and made its way to Scotland. John Knox was so successful at leading the Protestant movement in Glasgow that Catholicism would be all but forgotten in Glasgow until several hundred years later when an influx of Irish Catholic immigrants would rejuvenate the Catholic Church in Scotland.

During the 16th and 17th centuries the city would face hardship and a barrage of English invasions. Repeated cannon fire would leave its mark on the city and especially the castle in Glasgow. There was a serious outbreak of the plague in 1646 which alone could have devastated the city. On the heals of this epidemic the city suffered a devastating fire, fueled by the strong north wind the fire spread furiously through the timber and thatched city and after the second day destroyed more than one third of the city''s housing. The devastation fire left over 1,000 people homeless and Parliament was little help in funding the reconstruction. Fortunately laws were enacted prohibiting the timber construction and thatched roofing which fostered the spread of the devastating fire. New construction would begin using the approved stone and slate building materials which were meant to prohibit such rapid spread of fire in the future. Unfortunately in 1677 a vengeful apprentice would set fire to the workshop if his Blacksmith''s workshop, and the fire would spread quickly through more than 125 homes. But the people of Glasgow would prove hearty and, as they had in the past, picked themselves up and continued on for bigger and better things.

Industry improved as merchants branched into soap making, sugar processing, glass blowing and porcelain. There were also factories established that produced candles, rope and cloth. It was 1674 when the first cargo ship offering tobacco arrived in Glasgow. The product quickly became one of the most important imports and with the uniting of English and Scottish parliaments in the 18th century, Glasgow was able to take advantage of the previously forbidden trade routes to the West Indies and North America. Glasgow took advantage of this opportunity and soon ships laden with linen, leather and metalworks set sail for the colonies of America. These merchants established particularly strong ties with the colonies of Maryland and Virginia and by offering a credit system for plantation owners the Scots would gain a stronghold on tobacco trade in Britain. It was during this time of economic prosperity that many of the wealthy merchants commissioned fine estates. Development was primarily centered around the western edge of the Old Town and construction began on Merchant City. Unfortunately the American War of Independence marked the end of the tobacco era, but the introduction of the cotton industry and the emergence of improved steam engines would infuse the future wealth of the city, and the industrial revolution would propel the city''s wealth to new heights.

The population of Glasgow grew rapidly along with wealth. People flocked to the successful city from around Britain and beyond. The 19th century found Glasgow a leader in the cotton industry, steam locomotive production and primarily shipbuilding. Much of the proceeds from these successful ventures were poured into a variety of monuments, museums and other institutions which remain a staple in Glasgow culture today. The Nelson Monument was erected in 1806, the next year brought the introduction of the city''s first museum, the Hunterian. The Botanic Gardens and At. Andrew''s Cathedral were introduced in 1817. The Argyle Arcade was designed in 1827. The Necropolis was established in 1833 and would be the final resting-place for many of the wealthy merchants who had brought such prosperity to the city. The city''s infrastructure was vastly improved with the addition of broad new streets, the introduction of public transportation, a fresh water supply and sewerage system and electricity. The port facilities were also greatly improved by the addition of new docks and quays. Glasgow had become the home of many wealthy merchants, hard workers, intellectuals and artists. It was only fitting that Queen Victoria visit the city in 1888 when the city presented the International Exhibition of Science and Art. Her Royal Highness would lend her services at the opening of the grand addition of the City Chambers on St. George square and marked a fine day in the Glasgow heritage.

The 20th century brought a gradual decline of the previously celebrated industries that had made the city successful. Shipbuilding was perhaps the hardest hit by the depression, but was revived during World War II. Slowly employment shifted from the previously labor intensive industries to service positions which included finance, technology and tourism. Today the proud city of Glasgow enjoys a reputation of splendor. Home of some of the finest architecture in Scotland, Great Britain and beyond, the culture of the city of Glasgow draws tourists far and wide to enjoy her monuments, galleries and theaters. It is no wonder Glasgow is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Britain.

Old Glasgow - The medieval portion of this city hosts a series of buildings which stand in testament to the city''s past. Find Glasgow''s High Street Station, the Cathedral of St. Kentigern and Glasgow Green among many other attractions and brilliant examples of period architecture.

Merchant City - West of Old Glasgow, this district offers the most comprehensive shopping area in the city and includes the famed Argyle Arcade. You will also find some of the most elegant examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture in all of Scotland.

West End - Most of the major galleries and museums can be found in this neighborhood, alongside the University of Glasgow, the Botanical Gardens and Kelvingrove Park.

Glasgow - Airport (GLA)

Distance from Glasgow: 16 kilometers

Phone Numbers:
Information : +44 (0) 141 887 1111

Glasgow Prestwick Airport (GLA)

Distance from Glasgow: 54 kilometers

Phone Numbers:
Information : +44 (0) 129 251 1000

The Value Added Tax (VAT) of 17.5% is generally included in the price of goods in Scotland. Under the Retail Export Scheme, travelers can obtain a tax refund on goods purchased before returning to the United States. A form should be obtained at the time of purchase and submitted to the customs authority at the point of departure. Be careful, as shops tend to have a minimum purchase amount in order to qualify for this reimbursement. The minimum generally ranges from £50-£100, but double check with the vendor to make sure they participate.

Here are some great places to shop while traveling in Glasgow:

Princes Square - A most elegant shopping experience can be had as you travel through Glasgow. For a fine selection of designer fashion, exclusive boutiques and trendy stores, all under one roof, look no further than Prices Square.

Argyll Arcade - This covered shopping area offers a number of fine jewelers, but also a great opportunity to enjoy the unique architecture of John Baird''s iron-framed, hammer beam roof structure.

Buchanan Galleries Shopping Centre - The latest addition to fine shopping in Glasgow, the plaza is conveniently located near public transportation and is easily accessible to the M8 motorway. The Buchanan Galleries Shopping Centre prides itself as being a uniquely exclusive shopping centre, providing the finest quality fashion, accessories and gifts in Glasgow.

The Italian Centre - As you would expect, this contemporary plaza offers the finest names in Italian fashion. Expect to pay high-end prices for quality goods, but do take time to enjoy atmosphere.

St. Enoch Shopping Centre - The largest shopping center in Scotland is also Europe''s largest glass structure. With a fabulous selection of stores and restaurants this facility caters to guests of all ages and tastes.

Savoy Shopping Center - Everyone loves a good deal, and if you are looking for one in Glasgow, the Savoy is where to go. Several independent retailers have set out to offer competitive prices on quality goods including paintings, jewelry and furniture.

The Barras Market - Bargain shoppers delight in this lively market place. Vendors offer a plethora of goods, both used and new, and whether or not you find the perfect purchase, you are sure to enjoy the open-air market experience. Try your hand at haggling. It''s quite fun!

Buchanan Street, Argyle Street & Sauchiehall Street - These three streets make up the primary shopping district in Glasgow. Fine retailers converge on the pedestrianized area so quality goods can be found around every turn.

The People''s Palace - Constructed to honor and illustrate the lifestyle of the ''working class'' people of Glasgow, this unique museum offers a series of exhibits covering everything from gastronomy to dialect. There is also a lovely conservatory for partaking tea.

The Burrell Collection - A priceless art collection which includes pieces from all over the world.

Cathedral of St. Kentigern - This medieval church is the finest example of its kind in all of Scotland.

Glasgow Necropolis - This cemetery offers examples of nearly every type of architecture in the world, a statue of John Knoz and an exceptional view of the St. Kentigern Cathedral.

The Lighthouse - Scotland''s Centre for Architecture, Design and the City recently opened to the public and offers access to Mackintosh Tower with sweeping views of the city.

Glasgow Science Centre - This state of the art facility offers a unique group of exhibits which explore a wide spectrum of modern and applied sciences. A ''must see'' educational attraction!

The hearty winter weather in the northern region of this island nation calls for warm, high-caloric meals, which can be found throughout the 10,000 pubs in Scotland. For those who prefer a traditional vegetarian dish there are vegetarian variations of Haggis, but you may also elect to try Colcannon, a stew of boiled cabbage, carrots and potatoes which is drained and fried in a pan with butter, salt and pepper. This delicious dish is a must for vegetarians traveling in Scotland.

The freshest local ingredients are combined to create a vast array of traditional dishes waiting to be sampled while you travel in Scotland. Local specialties include seafood, beef, lamb, game birds and ostrich, as well as fresh soft fruits like raspberries, tayberries and blackberries or ''brambles'' as they are called locally and of course fresh local vegetables include potatoes, carrots, turnips, cabbages and cauliflower. Cheese-making is also an art which the Scottish have mastered with such products as the cheddar of Galloway, a nice compliment to these local dairy delicacies are the smoked fish products from various coastal towns in Scotland, notably the Arbroath Smokie is a local favorite. And what would a trip to Scotland be without a spot of Scotch Whiskey?

Restaurants and Eateries in Glasgow

The Mariner - Glasgow Moat House Hotel. The Mariner offers a delicious menu of the finest in modern and traditional Scottish cuisine.

Ubiquitous Chip - 12 Ashton Lane. This lovely eatery on Glasgow''s artsy and sophisticated West End, offers a refreshing twist on traditional Scottish cuisine. Previously awarded the Taste of Scotland : Best City Restaurant

City Merchant - 97-99 Candleriggs. For the freshest and most flavorful Scottish seafood dishes, try the City Merchant.

The Wee Curry Shop - 22 Buccleuch Street & 31 Ashton Lane. Indian food in Glasgow is delicious! The Wee Curry Shop offers a range of traditional Indian dishes which are sure to please, and are a refreshing break from English and Scottish cuisine.