The Honours of Scotland are the oldest Crown Jewels in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and among the oldest in Christendom. Their survival over the centuries has depended on many loyal Scots, some known but just as many unknown. Crown, sword and sceptre epitomise the ancient realm of Scotland with all its history of promise, failures and triumphs. For a small nation, jealous of its unique identity, the Hours are precious beyond price.
This guidebook summarises the history of Edinburgh Castle. The guided tour describes the historical and current use of each of buildings. The book tells the origins of the castle and the rock on which it is built. The "Honours of Scotland" (the Crown, Sword and Sceptre) and the Stone of Destiny are now on display in the castle. The Scottish War memorial is in Crown Square.
Picts [Paperback] Anna Ritchie (Author) 0114934916 978-0114934910 This book is a very good source of information on the Picts. This book contains something that many other books do not, lots of pictures with accurate information. Anyone who is interested in the Picts, but does not live where their history comes from would do well with this book. The full color pictures accompanied by well written and thought out information is well worth the buy. The book gives a well rounded perception of the Picts. The Picts haven't gotten much press or TV time, but they truly were a fascinating people. Hadrian's Wall was built against them, and the Romans never managed to conquer them. They're the original Blue Man Group. The best part of their cultural legacy, IMO, is their sculptural work. The stone carvings that they left behind are intricate and mysterious, ultimately developing into the Celtic form. The book Picts is lavishly supplied with quality photographs of the best of this art form. Most extant examples, and they are numerous, are preserved in various locales throughout Scotland. If you like ancient mysteries, this book is worth a look - highly recommended.
