Kilmartin Museum edges closer to revamping its museum of archaeological treasures

This article originally appeared on Culture24.

Kilmartin Museum has taken a step closer to achieving its goal of creating a world class holding for one of Scotland's most important archaeological collections

Located at the heart of Kilmartin Glen in Argyll, a landscape that boasts 800 known prehistoric and historic monuments, Kilmartin Museum currently cares for some of Britain’s oldest Bronze Age and Neolithic artefacts dating back to at least 3,500 BC.

Most of them were discovered within 10 miles of the museum’s front door in a prehistoric landscape of myriad ancient monuments - like the world’s largest prehistoric cup and ring marked rock and Dunadd Fort, citadel of the Kings of the Scotti tribe from whom Scotland got its name.

Now this remarkable treasure trove and its surrounding archaeological heritage has taken a step closer towards a £6.5 million Redevelopment Project that promises to transform existing buildings and safeguard the collections for future generations.

A first-round pass from the Heritage Lottery Fund towards a £3.1 million bid, together with £400,000 Development Funding to help progress its ambitious plans to a full proposal, means Kilmartin Museum’s Redevelopment Project is within touching distance of achieving “exciting and creative ways” for local people and visitors to connect with Argyll’s archaeology and rich natural heritage.

The major redesign and expansion, designed by multi award winning architects, Reiach and Hall, will include a new exhibition gallery displaying never-before-seen prehistoric objects, an additional gallery for artworks and temporary exhibitions and an ambitious programme of cultural events and activities.

A new learning suite will contain a collection store, education space and laboratory, to provide opportunities for volunteers, educational institutions, community groups and researchers to engage with Argyll’s internationally important archaeology.

Reflecting on Kilmartin Museum's natural heritage and world-class prehistoric landscape, Kilmartin Museum Director and Curator Dr Sharon Webb described the museum collection as "of international importance" giving "amazing insights into the lives of people who lived here".

“We now collect and care for most of the archaeological artefacts found in Argyll and we’ve outgrown our current facilities,” she added of the current museum, which opened in 1997 in an adapted 18th century manse and ancillary farm buildings.  

“We have the opportunity to gather Argyll’s archaeology in one place and ensure that it remains here. The Project will enable generations to enjoy the stories of the people who built the monuments and used the artefacts we've found in this wonderful place.”

A significant amount of funding for the project has already been pledged by partners and supporters and a major public fundraising campaign will be launched in the coming months to secure the remainder of the match funding required.

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Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/archaeology/art533425