Robert Mylne (1633-1710)

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Robert Mylne (1633-1710) was a Scottish architect and master-mason.

He came from a family of architects and builders, the eldest son of architectural sculptor Alexander Mylne (d.1643) and grandson of John Mylne (d. 1657).

In 1668, Mylne was appointed Master Mason to the Crown, succeeding his uncle, John Mylne Jr. (1611-67). In the 1670s, Charles II instructed him to rebuild and extend Holyrood Palace, under the direction of Sir William Bruce.

Mylne also built numerous houses in Edinburgh, including Mylne's Court, which now comprises student residences for the University of Edinburgh, and Mylne's Square, later demolished to make way for North Bridge. The Bank of Scotland originally set up in Mylne's Square in 1695. He also worked on the improvements to Edinburgh's water supply, as well as Leslie House for the Earl of Rothes, and the Mylne Battery at Edinburgh Castle.

Mylne served on the Town Council of Edinburgh for a time and owned the estate of Balfarg (or Balfargie) in Fife. He is buried in Greyfriars churchyard, Edinburgh, where his memorial names eight sons and six daughters. His eldest daughter married architect James Smith, with whom he worked on Drumlanrig Castle. His grandson, also named Robert Mylne, became a notable architect in the late 18th century.