17 September 2009

Media Releases

New pictures suggest that a remote Neolithic island burial mound may contain carvings of human eyes and eyebrows like those recently discovered on Scotland’s oldest human figurine. The 5,000-year-old 3.5cm tall stone carved figurine was recently found during the Historic Scotland funded excavation at the Links of Noltland prehistoric settlement on the Orkney island of Westray.

16 September 2009

Media Releases

An appeal for information about a set of photographs of Stanley Mills from nearly 90 years ago has been a success. The glass plate negatives were gifted to Historic Scotland following the death of Phyllis Culbert whose family had a long association with the mill complex on the banks of the River Tay, near Perth. While the chances of identifying any of the people in the pictures seemed small, Historic Scotland made an appeal through the media and also went through its own records to track down a cousin of Mrs Culbert’s who now lives in Dalkeith. Derek Culbert, who had not known of the existence of the photographs, immediately recognised family members including his father, uncle and grandfather. He also named the photographer as another relative, David Ness Culbert.

16 September 2009

Media Releases

The Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution, Michael Russell, has welcomed a new book from Historic Scotland which offers fascinating insights into the later medieval history of Scotland’s Cradle of Christianity. Clothing For The Soul Divine – Excavations at Whithorn Priory details the results of historical and scientific analysis of the remains discovered in high-status graves at Whithorn Priory, following recent rediscovery of the original excavation records. MSP Michael Russell said: “This latest research has been tremendously important in revealing more about the importance of Whithorn as a centre of Christianity during the later middle ages. I hope it will further our efforts to raise awareness of the area’s role in Scotland’s history, and encourage yet more people to visit a region which has so much to offer."

11 September 2009

Media Releases

There’s a chance to meet the most famous icons of Scotland’s history at Stirling Castle next weekend. Historic Scotland’s ‘Return of The Legends’ event on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September will see visitors coming face to face with heroes and heroines of different periods of our country’s rich past, including Mary, Queen of Scots, Robert The Bruce, and William Wallace, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. From noon to 4pm on both days, come along to the castle’s impressive Great Hall for an introduction to three Jacobites - Bonnie Dundee, Rob Roy MacGregor and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Take a wander through a battle camp and see how much William Wallace’s ‘Braveheart’ portrayal differed from his historically accurate image. Find out all about the turbulent life of Robert The Bruce, and be presented to Mary, Queen of Scots as she holds court in the Chapel Royal, entertained by dancers.

10 September 2009

Media Releases

Details of Scottish castles and tower-houses that are suitable for future restoration and reuse are to be listed online for the first time, Culture Minister Michael Russell announced today. The initiative is being led by Historic Scotland and aims to encourage financial investment in the refurbishment of Scotland’s built heritage during the economic downturn. It will also provide advice on the consent process, good practice and previous projects with the aim of revitalising existing buildings. Michael Russell said: “We have a great tradition in Scotland of successfully bringing these historic buildings back into use. It requires investment, determination and an understanding of the character, history and archaeology of the building."