The Forth Bridge's Victoriana festival

Picture to be credited to VisitScotland

Twin child models Gordon and Jude Lennon wearing face art depicting the Forth Rail Bridge World Heritage Site pose for a portrait at the Real Mary Kings Close in Edinburgh. Today, VisitScotland formally launched the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.

A Great Roman Bake-Off, large scale projections of Viking imagery, a live archaeological dig of St Kilda in Minecraft and a colourful international weaving festival are just a few of the events lined up to make history in 2017. — Picture to be credited to VisitScotland Twin child models Gordon and Jude Lennon wearing face art depicting the Forth Rail Bridge World Heritage Site pose for a portrait at the Real Mary Kings Close in Edinburgh. Today, VisitScotland formally launched the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology. A Great Roman Bake-Off, large scale projections of Viking imagery, a live archaeological dig of St Kilda in Minecraft and a colourful international weaving festival are just a few of the events lined up to make history in 2017.

And lets not forget the iconic Forth Bridge.

It’s one of the country’s most iconic structures and widely hailed as one of the industrial wonders of the world.

At the time of its construction the Forth Bridge was one of the most daring engineering feats ever attempted.

It took more than 4500 men to build it and eight years to complete, officially opening in 1890.

It is also one of six events being supported by a £300,000 Signature Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology Events fund to celebrate Scotland’s six World Heritage Sites on Tuesday, April 18.

A Victorian theme will run through the activities at the Forth Bridge including three-minute pop up festivals from the 1890s, workshops, a special “steampunk” surprise which will incorporate designs inspired by 19th century industrial machinery and more events still to be announced.

The celebration aims to inspire visitors and locals to #facethepast in new and innovative ways.

Manuela Calchini, regional director at VisitScotland, said: “The Forth Bridge is a magnificent feat of engineering and we’re delighted this iconic structure will take centre stage in a day-long celebration of Scotland’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

“From ancient monuments and cultural traditions to our myths, stories and legends, the year-long programme of activities will spotlight some of our greatest assets and icons as well as our hidden gems. We look forward to inviting visitors and locals alike to come face to face with the past in Fife.”

Cabinet Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “We are so fortunate in Scotland to have the most fascinating and inspiring history and heritage on our doorsteps, bringing the spirit of Scotland alive.

“As well as our history of many well-known stories and famous, indeed some infamous, historical characters, it will also give us an excellent opportunity to focus on Scotland’s world-renowned archaeology. This will entice visitors and locals alike to visit not only our known iconic landmarks with their thousands of years of history but also our many hidden gems.”

The hashtag for the year is #HHA2017 and people are encouraged to share Scotland’s history, heritage and archaeology on social media by taking a selfie at historical attractions or hidden gems and using #facethepast.

For more information, visit www.visitscotland.com/hha2017.