National Wallace Monument, Abbey Craig Stirling, Co. Stirling
Two miles from Stirling across the river Forth stands a monumental structure to a monumental figure in Scottish history. Sir William Wallace is Scotland ’s national hero and rouses Scottish patriotism like no other figure.
William Wallace’s story is a fascinating and noble tale of bravery, daring and intrigue now immortalised by the Hollywood adaptation ‘Braveheart’. The monument stands on the craggy hill, Abbey Craig, on the vantage point from which Wallace and his ally Andrew Murray famously rallied their men to victory against the English at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
Construction began in 1861 and the monument was opened on 11th September 1869, on the anniversary of Wallace’s victory. Built by public subscription, the monument cost over £10,000 and it stands proud at 220 feet.
Inside audio-visual displays tell Wallace’s story from the beginnings of the Wars of Independence and the ‘Ragman Rolls’, the murder of Wallace’s wife and his revenge and guerrilla campaign against the English, the Battle of Stirling Bridge and Wallace’s knighthood, to defeat and betrayal at Falkirk and Wallace’s capture and cruel execution in London . Also on display is the 700 year old Wallace Sword, a magnificent two handed broadsword, it’s battered blade measuring 52 inches, but weighing just 6 pounds, it must have been a fearsome sight to Wallace’s enemies.
The monument also houses an interesting exhibition on other Scottish Heros of literature, politics and engineering and at the top of the tower, 246 steps up, are spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
