News

A new study led by researchers at National Museums Scotland describes the first comprehensive osteobiography of a zoo animal, a cutting-edge scientific method that involves the analysis of bones and tissue. These techniques have been applied to reveal the in-depth story of the life of Choppers, star of the 1970s PG Tips advertising campaign, illustrating the changing role of zoos over the past 50 years. 

A fossil first spotted in Skye over 50 years ago has finally been extracted from the base of the cliff where it was found and, following analysis, formally identified as a Jurassic dinosaur.

Powder horns from the 17th to 19th century, a road sign from Skye and a handmade crogan, or earthenware pot, are among 100 objects to be reappraised in a new project which aims to reveal the Gaelic stories and connections behind material held in the National Collection.

On the eve of its unveiling in Adelaide on the first leg of an international tour, the first translation of a runic inscription on an arm ring from the Viking-age Galloway Hoard has cast fascinating new light on who might have owned the famous treasure. 

The Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic, Ms Forbes, today announced the reappointment of Motaram Mimi Brophy, Graeme Gibson and Professor Ian Wall to the Board of Trustees of National Museums Scotland

Press images can be downloaded here

The iconic Lewis chess pieces can now be viewed from a very different angle thanks to a new display at the National Museum of Scotland. Among the best-known objects in Scotland’s most popular visitor attraction, ten of the medieval gaming pieces have been redisplayed in a new case which allows visitors to view their backs for the first time. 

One of the most significant hoards ever found in Scotland has been saved for the nation, having been acquired by National Museums Scotland. The Bronze Age Peebles Hoard was discovered in the Scottish Borders by a metal detectorist in 2020. It has since been painstakingly excavated, analysed and catalogued, revealing dozens of rare objects for the first time. Efforts are now underway to secure funding for the continued research and conservation of the hoard and to uncover the secrets of this one-of-a-kind discovery. 

An important collection of photography and photographic equipment has been saved for the nation and allocated to National Museums Scotland under the Acceptance in Lieu scheme. 

Archaeologists have discovered the ruins of an incredibly rare 5000-year-old Neolithic tomb that was largely destroyed without record in the 19th century.

This week will see maths-related activities taking place across the country in the annual Maths Week Scotland programme. The theme of this year’s programme, which is coordinated by National Museums Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government, is Maths in Motion.  

Springtime storytelling sessions, craft activities and the chance to see new-born lambs, calves and piglets are some of the attractions for visitors to enjoy in the coming weeks at the National Museum of Rural Life in East Kilbride.