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Ancient Building Technique on display at the National Wallace Monument
The National Wallace Monument in Stirling has teamed up with Historic Environment Scotland's stonemasons to demonstrate the ancient techniques involved in the building of the Monument at the historic landmark's Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design event, from 24th - 26th June.
The three-day event, entitled ‘A Victorian Masterpiece', will commence on the 155th Anniversary of the laying of the foundation stone for the Monument, and will allow visitors to experience the excitement of when work started on the building that commemorates the Scottish hero William Wallace.
Each day, from 10.30am until 4.30pm, Historic Environment Scotland staff will be demonstrating the traditional building and craft skills involved in stonemasonry, with visitors being invited to learn the techniques used to carve the stonework of Scotland's historic structures.
Ken Thomson, Marketing Manager at Stirling District Tourism said: "This special event provides an opportunity for us to focus on the story of the building itself, and the dedicated Victorian craftsmen whose skills were used in constructing the Monument. The work of Historic Environment Scotland keeps these important skills alive, and visitors this weekend will have an insight into the work that went in to creating the famous Scottish landmark."
The craft of stonemasonry is an ancient technique that involves cutting and carving stone to create buildings, structures and sculptures and one that is needed today to conserve many of Scotland's buildings, including the National Wallace Monument.
Wendy Malkin, Events Officer at Historic Environment Scotland, added: "Scotland has a rich and diverse built heritage, which is a part of our everyday life with many of the buildings still in use today as homes or offices. Being able to showcase traditional skills at events such as this is a great opportunity to introduce people to them and even let them try their own hand at stone carving and perhaps even encourage some to consider the field for their future career."
Along with the demonstrations from stonemasons, a display of the architect's original plans for the Monument, performances of traditional Scottish pipe music, a new exhibition of Monument memorabilia, and live presentations by costumed actors telling the story of the Monument, will all form part of the weekend of activities for visitors to enjoy.
As part of the celebration The National Wallace Monument is offering all visitors a reduction of 10% on admission tickets over the three days, and this is available with tickets purchased in advance online, or on arrival at the Monument.