New images mark Declaration of Arbroath anniversary
The 703-year-old document will go on display in Edinburgh in June
Last updated 6th Apr 2023
New images have been released to mark the 703rd anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath.
The Declaration of Arbroath is a letter to the Pope sent in 1320 from the barons of the Kingdom of Scotland seeking his recognition of Robert the Bruce as the country’s lawful king.
The famous document will go on display in Edinburgh for the first time in 18 year this June.
Read More: Declaration of Arbroath to go on public display
Widley seen as Scotland's most iconic document, the Declaration will be on display at the National Museum of Scotland from the 3rd June 2023 to 2nd July 2023.
The documents last public display was at the Scottish Parliament.
National Records of Scotland Chief Executive Janet Egdell said: “NRS is proud to help display the Declaration of Arbroath, one of the most prestigious documents in our collections, a record of a key period in Scottish history.
“The Declaration is striking but at 703 years old, it’s fragile and can only be displayed occasionally to ensure its long-term preservation, under the care of our conservation experts.
“I hope that these new images released today bring this key period in Scottish history to life for people and as many as possible take the chance to see the Declaration for themselves from 2 June.”
Dr Alice Blackwell, Senior Curator of Medieval Archaeology and History at National Museums Scotland said: "We’re delighted to be able to present this rare and fragile part of Scotland’s medieval past in a free exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland this summer.
“Its evocative sentiments have given the Declaration of Arbroath a special distinction, not just in Scotland but around the world.
“We are looking forward to inviting visitors to learn more about this fascinating document and to enjoy a rare opportunity to see it first-hand."
