One of Scotland’s most famous landmarks is in line for an extensive redesign.
Interpretive exhibition design specialists Campbell & Co has been appointed to carry out a massive refurbishment of the interior galleries at the National Wallace Monument, which overlooks Stirling.
Built to commemorate patriot Sir William Wallace, the monument attracts more than 110,000 visitors every year.
Standing on the rocky outcrop of the Abbey Craig, it looms over the site of Wallace’s famous victory over the English army of King Edward I at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, one of the most significant encounters in the Wars of Independence.
Built to the design of the distinguished Victorian architect JT Rochead, the monument incorporates three distinctive galleries, each of which will be completely remodelled before the start of the main visitor season next year.
The first floor originally known as the Hall of Arms with its stained glass windows depicting the arms of Great Britain, Scotland, Wallace and the Burgh of Stirling will be redesigned to provide visitors with a presentation on the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
This will draw on research which has been undertaken by eminent historians with specialist knowledge of the medieval period.
At the heart of this gallery will be one of the most symbolic artefacts housed at the monument the Wallace Sword, with which Scotland’s national hero struck fear into the hearts of his enemies.
The story of Wallace’s life and of how he has been acclaimed as Scotland’s national hero will be told in the second-floor Hall of Heroes where busts of Scottish heroes from Robert the Bruce to Robert Burns celebrate Scotland’s contribution to science, engineering, industry and the arts.
On the third floor visitors will be able to discover the story behind the building of the monument and the other memorials to Wallace.
David Campbell, managing director of Campbell & Co, said: “We are delighted to be appointed as designers for the refurbishment of the National Wallace Monument and to renew our acquaintance with a building and subject very dear to my heart.
“For the thousands of visitors who travel every year from all across the world to visit the monument, the way in which the stories of the Battle of Stirling Bridge and of the life of William Wallace are told is really important and we want every one of those visitors to have a really memorable experience when they come to Stirling.”
The refurbishment of each gallery will involve the installation of new displays with tablet computers making use of the latest technology, as well as the introduction of new facilities for younger visitors.
Stirling district tourism director and chairperson, Zillah Jamieson, said that having completed an upgrade of facilities which greet visitors on arrival, they realised it was important to ensure that what was on offer inside the building would fully meet, and exceed, visitors’ expectations.
“We also want to ensure that the way in which information is presented to visitors truly enhances the building, and makes the most of its remarkable setting on the Abbey Craig,” Zillah added.