The filming of the best-selling controversial novel ‘Da Vinci Code’ by Dan Brown has started at the 15th century Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian. The chapel has been closed down by officials for a week to allow the filming.
|PIC1|
The chapel’s trustees and Rose Line Productions have agreed on the use of location for the filming. But there has been concern that the unprecedented interest in the chapel will be harmful to the historic site, unless controlled under strict provisions.

The trustees said the protection of the site was always under review. Visitors have been pouring in to the chapel after the book’s plot suggested that it was built to house the secret of the Holy Grail.

Stuart Beattie, the trustees spokesman has commented that he believes the film will prove great value for money. He told how the location fees alone are expected to generate £100,000.

Provost Sam Campbell, Midlothian Council's tourism spokesman, spoke of his “delight” that the area was to be displayed to the world. He said the money received by the trust will be used to restore the chapel and brushed off any fears of mass tourism impacting the area.

The Da Vinci Code, published two years ago, is a mix of code-breaking, art history, religion and mystical myth, and has sold millions of copies worldwide. But the book’s claim that Jesus married Mary Magdalene and had descendants, has offended many Christians.