ARCHAEOLOGY tourists are expected to come to ­Scotland for a year-long ­celebration of the country's heritage.

Thousands of experts will visit Glasgow for the first European Association of Archaeologists conference to be held in Scotland next September.

A website called DigIt 2015 has been set up to bring ­Scotland's past to life in preparation for a nationwide programme of related events designed to help cement Scotland's reputation as a destination for archaeology enthusiasts.

The Society of ­Antiquaries of Scotland and Archaeology Scotland set up the site funded by Historic Scotland.

A line-up of events designed to get people exploring the archaeology around them is already in place, including exhibitions, "big digs" and festivals.

Exhibitions and events are planned at Glasgow Museums, the National Museums of Scotland and many other venues, and 2015 is also the European Year of Industrial Heritage.

Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture and External Affairs, said: ­"Scotland's archaeological heritage is rich, dynamic and inspiring and I am delighted that this year-long programme of events will celebrate that heritage."