Declaration of Arbroath: The most famous letter in Scottish history.

The Declaration of Arbroath is seen by many as one of the most famous documents in Scottish history.

It was written on 6 April 1320 but its words continue to inspire some in the Scottish independence movement, 700 years later.

Its broader message is a call for the right of Scots to rule themselves - but some claim its significance has been overstated and its purpose was simply to shore up the reign of King Robert the Bruce.

What was the Declaration of Arbroath?

2020 marks the 700th anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath held by National Records of Scotland (NRS). 700th anniversaries do not come around all that often and NRS staff were greatly looking forward to exhibiting this unique document in the National Museum of Scotland. However the health and safety of the public and staff is always our top priority and following updated guidance from the UK and Scottish Government on Covid-19/Coronavirus the exhibition of the Declaration has been postponed.