The name "Joppa" is of biblical origin, referring to the port of Jaffa in Israel, and was first bestowed on this part of Edinburgh in the 18th century (apparently because, like its namesake, it sits next to the sea).

Practically nothing remains of the industrial buildings but Rockville, formerly the owner's/manager's house and now a hotel and Rock Cottage.

It is built from Binny Stone in the Early Decorated style by John Honeyman (1831–1914) and was completed in 1877.

The German pilots shot down during the raid were buried, following a ceremony at St Philip's Church, in Portobello Cemetery which lies on Milton Road East.

The main attractions are now the Joppa Rocks, for their geological interest, and Portobello Beach on the seafront.