Scotland's Oldest Book on Display

Univeristy of Edinburgh

The Celtic Psalter, which dates from the 11th century and is considered to be the oldest book in Scotland, is to be put on public display by archivists at the University of Edinburgh. The manuscript, nearly 1,000 years old, contains hand-written psalms in Latin, and is illustrated with Celtic and Pictish depictions of dragons and beasts.

The manuscript has never been shown to the public, but the University now have a special display case to feature it. Joseph Marshall, from the University, said:

"People have been reluctant to show it, but now we have a special display case, and really this is the book's first public outing in 1,000 years.

"The great thing about it is we think it is the oldest Scottish book still in Scotland, so it is one of our greatest national treasures, and people haven't really known about it. We are hoping people will recognise it for what it is – one of the most precious documents in the country."

The Celtic Psalter will be on display from 11th December until 14th March 2010.