New photos of Declaration of Arbroath released ahead of exhibition

These never-before-seen pictures are being made available to mark its 703rd anniversary. It will be displayed for the first time in 18 years from June 3 – July 2 at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.

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.

Janet Egdell, NRS chief executive, 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. 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 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.”

Dr Alice Blackwell, National Museums Scotland’s senior curator of medieval archaeology and history, added: "We’re delighted to be able to present this rare and fragile part of Scotland’s medieval past in a free exhibition. Its evocative sentiments have given the Declaration 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."