And while many other UK cities seem to favour destruction over regeneration, mercifully, architectural conservation is treated as a priority in Scotland’s capital.
We've trawled through the photo archives to bring you a dozen iconic landmarks around Auld Reekie that have found a new lease of life.
5. The Hub, Castlehill
Formerly the Tolbooth Kirk, this striking building was built in the 1840s and was originally served as a meeting hall for the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. Today it's known as the Hub, and is used as a ticket office, information centre and performance venue during the Edinburgh Festival. Photo: Greg Macvean
6. City Art Centre
This huge former warehouse at Market Street once housed the fruit and vegetables arriving in by train from Waverley Station. In 1980 the building was transformed into the City Art Centre and has been exhibiting the best in Scottish and international art ever since. Photo: Photographer: Scott Louden
7. Scotsman buildings, North Bridge
It would be rude not to include our former newspaper offices. The Scotsman buildings were famously home to The Scotsman and Evening News for much of the 20th century. Today the baroque-style building contains The Scotsman Hotel. Rooms such as the Headline Suite, the Features Suite and Reporter Room recall the building's original use. Photo: Ian Rutherford
8. Newhaven Fishmarket
Built as the hub of district's once thriving fishing industry, this delightful old fishmarket continues to grace Newhaven Harbour. The Fishmarket was voted one of the world's best fish restaurants by Lonely Planet. Photo: JON SAVAGE