Step into the past with Saints, Monks & Knights
A new book published by North Ayrshire Council Museums Service, through funding from Museums Galleries Scotland will encourage visitors to explore the rich medieval and renaissance history of North Ayrshire.
Exploring North Ayrshire's past, the book invites the reader to venture out on their own trail to discover these amazing artefacts and structures for themselves.
Morag McNicol, North Ayrshire Council Museums Manager, said:
"Thanks to the dedicated research work carried out by Mark Strachan, our Museums Officer this book highlights a most fascinating period of history and will introduce the heritage of the area to the local community and visitors to the area".
Many of the structures are located against some of the most scenic coastal and countryside backdrops in Ayrshire. From the beautifully decorated Skelmorlie Aisle in Largs, to the grand elegance of Brodick Castle, to the magnificent Norman Abbey at Kilwinning and the sympathetically restored Garrison House, home to the Museum of the Cumbraes. Not forgetting, the North Ayrshire Museum in Saltcoats, formerly an 18th century church where the Ardrossan Sarcophagus and a section of the Kilwinning Cross are housed.
Joanne Orr, Chief Executive Officer of Museums Galleries Scotland, said:
"Museums Galleries Scotland grants support projects that help to achieve our shared vision of a sector that opens doors and celebrates collections, inspiring crativity, learning and enjoyment for all. It is a great example of how this vision is being accomplished through our member museum and galleries innovation".
The book is on sale now from North Ayrshire libraries and museums.
For further information or if you would like to attend the official book launch on Thursday 25 March in North Ayrshire Museum, please contact 01294 464174, namuseum@north-ayrshire.gov.uk.