Tarbat Discovery Centre

A Window into Pictish Art and Culture

The Tarbat Discovery Centre is situated on the grounds of the ancient Tarbat Old Parish Church in Portmahomack, Easter Ross. This museum is internationally significant for its collection of Pictish stone carvings, including intricately carved cross-slabs adorned with geometric patterns, animals, and human figures. These works of art date back over 1,200 years and were uncovered during extensive archaeological excavations between 1994 and 2007. The centre also displays tools and moulds used by Pictish monks in the 8th century to create religious masterpieces such as chalices and reliquaries made of gold, silver, enamel, and glass.

Medieval Mysteries and Sacred Relics

Beyond the Pictish artifacts, the centre houses a rare 14th-century crypt that once held the relics of a saint. It also features the extraordinary six-headed burial of a clan chief, a unique archaeological find that offers insights into medieval burial customs. The historic church building itself is a timeline of six successive churches on the site, with remains dating back to the 8th century, underscoring the long religious significance of this location.

Vellum Workshop: A European Rarity

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Tarbat Discovery Centre is its evidence of a vellum workshop—the only one known in Europe. Vellum, made from calfskin, was the writing surface for illuminated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells and the Lindisfarne Gospels. Tools like knives, scrapers, and pumice stones found here reveal the sophisticated craft practiced by the Pictish monks, highlighting Tarbat’s importance as a religious and cultural hub in early medieval Scotland.

Engaging Visitor Experience and Educational Activities

The centre offers interactive experiences, including an archaeology pit where visitors can dig for replica Pictish and medieval artifacts. It serves as a learning and activity centre that preserves and promotes the heritage of the Tarbat Peninsula. Groups and schools are welcomed, with tailored visits to deepen understanding of the Pictish way of life and the area's historical context.

Connection to Broader Pictish Heritage

Tarbat Discovery Centre is part of a wider network of Pictish sites on the Easter Ross Peninsula. It complements the Highland Pictish Trail, offering visitors a deeper appreciation of the Pictish civilization’s legacy. The centre also preserves local family history archives and artefacts from its more recent role as the Tarbat Old Kirk parish church, linking past and present community identities.

Setting and Atmosphere

Nestled in a tranquil coastal village, the centre’s setting enhances the visitor experience with scenic Highland landscapes. The historic church and grounds provide a contemplative atmosphere, inviting reflection on the ancient and medieval past. The centre’s dedication to conservation and education ensures that the cultural treasures of the Tarbat Peninsula remain accessible and meaningful for future generations.