Uncovering the Origin of the Book of Kells
Join noted scholar Dr Victoria Thompson Whitworth as she shares her work on links between the Picts and the Book of Kells - one of Christianity's most important medieval documents!
About Uncovering the Origin of the Book of Kells
Who were the Picts, the people who lived in Scotland around 300-900 CE? Remarkable standing stones are their main legacy - but did they perhaps leave behind a manuscript as well? Join noted scholar Dr Victoria Thompson Whitworth as she shares her work on links between the Picts and the Book of Kells - one of Christianity's most important medieval documents.
In the 8th century, a large monastery was at the site of St Colman’s Church in Portmahomack, a village north of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. Archaeological digs show that the monastery's monks had the tools, techniques and skills to make manuscripts - and Dr Thompson Whitworth argues that the Book of Kells might well have been one of the texts produced there. In this talk, she will explore the origins of the Book of Kells and its connections to Portmahomack and the Pictish world. At the end of her talk she will be joined by Master Craftsman Thomas Keyes whose artwork uses the same materials and techniques that the monks used. They will discuss the convergence of their research findings that contribute to better understanding of the Book of Kells.
This is a hybrid event, which will be held in person at Edinburgh’s Augustine United Church and live-streamed online. Each mode of attendance has its own ticket - please make sure to book the correct one.
The event is hosted by the Tarbat Discovery Centre, a museum, learning and activity centre that preserves and promotes the heritage of the Tarbat peninsula in the far north of Scotland. The Tarbat Discovery Centre is on the grounds of the ancient church of St. Colman, displaying works of art created in stone by the Picts more than 1,200 years ago. These treasures, discovered during a 1990s archaeological dig, include fragments of majestic cross-slabs carved skilfully with elaborate geometric patterns, interwoven with magnificent animals and people. The Centre displays Pict and Early Medieval tools, artefacts and moulds used in the 8th century to create religious masterpieces, such as chalices and reliquaries in gold, silver, enamel and glass.
Thank you to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting this event.
Where possible we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events, however we STRONGLY ADVISE that you check with the venue/organiser in the first instance for updates.
All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.GOT AN EVENT TO SHARE? It's free to post your events on What's On Edinburgh, click here to find out more!
Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Edinburgh? Follow us on Facebook and join the What's On Scotland Group!Sponsored Links
Other Events at Augustine United Church
Gowns & Glamour, an Art Deco Adventure from Paris to New York
The Costume Society Scotland's December talk is taking place at Augustine United Church on the 1st and will hopefully enthuse the art deco in you!
READ MORE
HarmonyChoir Concert - Christmas in Space
Join the HarmonyChoir for a fun and fanciful concert combining the magic of Christmas with the wonders of the cosmos at Augustine United Church on Saturday 13th December!
READ MORE
Tartan Tabletops Big Christmas Special
Deck the halls with big Nat 20s! Join the Tartan Tabletop gang for a festive D&D live-play show! Get your Christmas Jumpers at the ready...
READ MORESponsored Links
Similar events you might like...
Guided Looking: An Artwork Audio Described
Join Fiona Johnston, audio describer, as she describes various artwork and objects from the Royal Collection at the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
READ MORE
Palace Page Turners
Many authors have been inspired to pick up their pen to write about the Palace of Holyroodhouse. These sessions will explore these literary works followed by a hearty discussion!
READ MORE
Find Out Fridays
Explore a different theme each week on Friday afternoons, during school term-time, with our Learning team at the National Museum of Scotland.
READ MORE
Coffee & French Conversation
Want to practice your French in an informal setting? Join us at the Institut français d’Écosse for a relaxed morning chat – over a cup of coffee or tea and a croissant or pain au chocolat!
READ MORE
Beneath the Surface: King’s Gallery Short Talks
Join our team at the Palace of Holyroodhouse for weekly gallery talks as part of the exhibition Drawing the Italian Renaissance!
READ MORE
Mark Hearld Talks Tapestry
Discover artist and designer Mark Hearld's passion for tapestry in this conversation with Dovecot's Master Weaver Naomi Robertson on 28th November!
READ MORE
Gathering of the Clans Presented By Lost Shore & 50th Celebration of Scottish Surfing
This special weekend at Lost Shore marks five decades of Scottish surf culture, competition, and community – bringing together surfers, fans, and the public!
READ MORE
Weekly Tours at St Cecilia’s Hall
Join our team of volunteers at St Cecilia's Hall for a FREE weekly tour of the collection!
READ MORE
Leith Creative Trail 2025
This winter, the streets of Leith come alive with creativity as Edinburgh Open Workshop coordinates the return of the Leith Creative Trail.
READ MOREFind other events in Edinburgh
Sponsored Links