Discover
Fascinating stories behind our collection, from the prehistoric to the present.
With over 12 million objects and specimens in our museums and stores, we have a lot of stories to tell. Uncover hidden histories, discover breakthrough research, and dip in to different perspectives with our collection of articles and films.
Featured stories
Fashion and folklore of the Arnish Moor man
On the Isle of Lewis in the 1700s, a young man was mortally injured. His clothed remains were recovered 300 years later.
What is the Peebles Hoard?
Explore the hoard of exciting and complex Bronze Age objects, many of them never found before in Scotland.
An unsolved mystery: the coffins found on Arthur's Seat
Satanic spell, superstitious charm or echo of Edinburgh’s grisly underworld history?
Who was Mary, Queen of Scots?
The life, death, and legacy of Mary, Queen of Scots
History and cultures, Scotland
Arguably the most famous and controversial figure in Scottish history, Mary Stewart has become something of an enigma. Intrigue and romance have often obscured the hard facts of her life and reign.
Mary, Queen of Scots
History and cultures, Scotland
Mary, Queen of Scots is one of the most famous yet enigmatic figures in Scottish history. Our collection contains a rich selection of objects associated with Mary. Explore her dramatic story and separate out the facts from the myths that…
The controversial letters associated with the Mary, Queen of Scots Casket
History and cultures, Scotland
The Mary, Queen of Scots Casket is one of Scotland’s most cherished treasures, thanks to its long-standing association with the controversial queen.
Mary, Queen of Scots and the silver casket
History and cultures, Scotland
The Mary, Queen of Scots Casket is one of Scotland’s most cherished treasures, thanks to its long-standing association with the controversial queen. Take a closer look at this extremely rare work of early French silver and its associations…
A brief history of James VI and I
History and cultures, Scotland
James VI and I was a hugely significant Stewart king. But he has been overshadowed by his notorious relations. His predecessor in Scotland was his mother, Mary, Queen of Scots. In England, his cousin, Elizabeth I, and finally his successor…
True or False: Objects associated with Mary, Queen of Scots
History and cultures, Scotland
The life and death of Mary, Queen of Scots has given rise to countless legends over the years. Many places and objects acquire a new glamour through their association with her - genuine or otherwise. In our collection we have many items…
Exhibition deep dive: Cold War Scotland
How Scotland became a Cold War battleground
Drawing on never-before-seen archives, object collections, footage, and interviews with experts, this film explores Scotland's critical position on the frontline of the Cold War.
Nuclear Scotland during the Cold War
Discover the history and impact of nuclear power in Scotland during this period.
The Cold War and Scottish society
Scotland was the site for cultural and political exchange from both sides of the Cold War across the 20th century. This film delves into the stories of the Cold War and Scottish society.
Ever wonder how minerals are named?
Latest stories
Forging a path - Scotland's iron industry
Science and technology, Scotland
Written by Georgina GrantIn July 2025 one of the last iron foundries in Scotland closed its doors. Ballantine Castings Ltd, based in Bo’ness, had been in operation for 200 years. The foundry supplied decorative, architectural and engineering ironwork across…
What is the Blyth Hoard?
Archaeology, Scotland
Written by Dr Matthew KnightA unique discovery from the Scottish Borders is shedding new light on the making of Bronze Age objects in Scotland.
Fan favourites: 5 decorative souvenir fans
Art and design, Fashion and textiles
Written by Dr Emily Taylor & Carys WilkinsHand-held folding fans are a lightweight portable accessory. Although their practical function is to keep you cool, the decoration and materials used to make fans communicate much, much more.Fans make ideal souvenirs, intended to be…
A Viking Age boatyard on Eigg
Archaeology
Written by Dr Adrián MaldonadoTwo oak boat stems dating to 880-1050 AD from the isle of Eigg show the arrival of Scandinavian seafaring technology to Scotland.These rare survivals reveal how the Viking Age forever changed Scotland's seaways.Vikings and the seaWe tend…
'The world opened up to us’: Collecting American-Scottish Cold War experiences in Dunoon, Scotland
History and cultures, Scotland
Written by Dr Sarah Harper & Dr Mhairi MaxwellThe Cold War in Scotland forged new bonds between Scottish and American communities. As testimonies of veterans and Dunoon locals tell us, the conflict brought different cultures together and had a lasting impact on the town and its…
Scotland in the time of Giants
Natural world, Scotland
Written by Dr Sarah StewartFollowing the extinction of dinosaurs and other animals such as marine reptiles 66 million years ago, smaller surviving animals evolved, and some became giants.
Header image: An Egyptian sock on display at the National Museum of Scotland, after conservation. Museum reference A.1911.315. Read The lost sock: An ancient Egyptian textile to learn more about this sock's story.