Scotland’s First Warriors
Discover the thrilling origins of ancient combat through rare treasures, including the stunning Carnoustie Hoard, in this must-see journey through Scotland's prehistoric warrior past!
About Scotland’s First Warriors
| 27th Jun 2026 to 17th May 2027 | |
| As per opening hours | |
|
National Museum of Scotland National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 1JF |
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| This is a free event | |
| Visit the event website here |
Who were Scotland’s First Warriors?
This exhibition reveals the origins and impact of conflict in prehistoric Scotland.
Explore the first signs of organised warfare, from the Neolithic (late Stone Age) to the Romans, through over 250 objects.
Scotland's First Warriors explores how and why people fought, the impact of war, and the legacy of prehistoric conflict.
Internationally significant archaeological discoveries from Scotland will be on display for the first time.
Visitors will see the Carnoustie Hoard - which was deliberately and thoughtfully placed near a Bronze Age round structure. It includes a spearhead decorated with gold, and a bronze sword in a wooden scabbard. An exceptionally rare find, it dates from around 1120-920 BC.
The exhibition maps the journey from the sword - a Bronze Age invention - through to the Roman concept of a professional soldier.
Scotland's First Warriors is a unique exhibition that engages visitors with the very nature of war.
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