A TOTAL of 31 monuments carved between the ninth and 11th centuries have been overwhelmingly voted Scotland's top archaeological attractions.
Visitors can view the Govan Stones, for free at Govan Old Parish Church, giving an insight into the power of Strathclyde's former rulers.
Photo credit: The Govan Stones Project
It features five hogback stones and the Govan Sarcophagus, the only such solid stone from pre-Norman, northern Britain. It secured 2,000 votes the Dig It! 2017 survey which saw more than 12,000 people vote for their favourite historic attraction.
Runner-up was the ruined Ardrossan Castle in North Ayrshire that is said to be haunted by William Wallace.
The Howff, a 453-year-old graveyard, in Dundee secured 1,000 votes and third. James Watt's cottage, on the Kinneil estate in Bo'ness was fourth, while Campbeltown Picture House came fifth. Sixth was Lincluden Collegiate Church (also known as Lincluden Abbey) near Dumfries.
Dr Jeff Sanders, Dig It! 2017 Project Manager, said: “We’ve been thrilled by the reaction to the Hidden Gems campaign. The people who nominated the sites have put an enormous amount of time and effort into the promotion and it’s been great to see members of the public respond with equal enthusiasm - whether they’re sharing childhood memories or discovering a site for the first time.”
Marie Christie, Head of Development, VisitScotland Events Directorate said: ‘From World Heritage Sites to ancient monuments, listed buildings to historic battlefields, cultural traditions to our myths, stories and legends, the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology is the time to explore Scotland's fascinating past. “
Over 12,000 votes were cast over the last two months and the winners revealed:
- Govan Stones, Glasgow
- Ardrossan Castle, North Ayrshire
- The Howff, Dundee
- James Watt Cottage, Bo’ness (Falkirk)
- Campbeltown Picture House, Argyll & Bute
- Lincluden Collegiate Church, Dumfries & Galloway
To learn more about the sites, visit DigIt2017.com
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