2 June 2009

Media Releases

A hand-carved replica set of the Stirling Heads – world-famous masterpieces of Scottish Renaissance art – is about to be unveiled. The unveiling, by Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution, Michael Russell MSP, marks the completion of five years’ work for expert wood carver John Donaldson. The 41 oak medallions, each a metre wide, are copies of 16th-century originals and feature vivid depictions of a variety of characters including Medieval kings and queens, Roman emperors and mythological heroes.

1 June 2009

Media Releases

The dark days and dramatic events of the 17th century are revisited at Urquhart Castle on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th June when the formidable stronghold overlooking the waters of Loch Ness once again comes under siege. Visitors will be taken back to the mid-1640s to witness how the opposing forces of Highlanders and Lowlanders, Covenanters and Royalists battled for control of the strategically-located medieval fortress. The Historic Scotland ‘Under Siege’ event gives visitors the opportunity to tour the castle’s defences and besiegers’ camp, meet characters from both sides and hear why each was so committed to their cause. And there’s also a chance to learn about the fearsome weaponry of the period – the pikes, muskets, swords and cannons – and experience their might first-hand.

26 May 2009

Media Releases

Heritage projects ranging from the landmark Pearce Institute in Govan; one of Scotland’s finest Greek Revival house and an Oil Storage Tank in Orkney used as a visitor centre are to benefit from grants announced by Culture Minister Michael Russell today (Tuesday). Six buildings will share more than £790,000 from Historic Scotland’s Building Repairs Grants. The Minister said: “In the current economic climate it is essential that we support projects that will make a real and visible difference to their communities and Scotland as a whole. It is important that when we invest money in our heritage we recognise the wealth of variety across Scotland. The buildings in this round are a wonderful example of the various building styles which will provide training opportunities in a number of traditional skills. “

20 May 2009

Media Releases

A programme to improve how Historic Scotland serves its customers, the ways it works with partners and shares its expertise has been announced by Culture Minister Michael Russell today (Wednesday, 20 May). Speaking at the final Historic Environment Advisory Council for Scotland (HEACS) conference, the Minister detailed the steps Historic Scotland will take. The Minister also launched a three-month consultation on the Heritage Bill (Scotland) which will modernise current heritage legislation.

20 May 2009

Media Releases

Keeping teams in order on a football field is tough enough, but being referee for 80 warriors in a Medieval tournament is a whole new ball game. That’s the challenge for Denis Reid who will take the role of Carrick Herald Pursuivant, during Party at the Palace 1503 on 23 and 24 May. The two-day pageant and grand tournament takes place at Linlithgow Palace and recalls the celebrations for the wedding of James IV to Margaret Tudor and the signing of the Treaty of Perpetual Peace with England.