A major land survey is to be carried out at the scene of a famous Jacobite clash.
Teams will use metal detectors to sweep the site of the Battle of Killiecrankie, which happened in 1689, as part of the Scottish Government’s proposed A9 upgrade works in Perthshire.
The survey is part of the design process for the project – which will result in the road being dualled between Killiecrankie and Pitagowan – but it is also hoped it will help dig up some long-forgotten treasures.
The battle – between Jacobite rebels and Hanoverian government forces – ended in a stunning victory for the rebels, but had very little impact on the eventual outcome of the war.
The survey was announced by Derek Mackay, transport minister, during a project exhibition at Killiecrankie Visitors Centre.
It has been welcomed by the National Trust for Scotland.
Iain Reid, the organisation’s interim chief executive, said: “Killiecrankie is one of Scotland’s most famous and fateful battlefields and it is an honour for the National Trust for Scotland to care for it.
“We welcome the partnership with Transport Scotland as they conduct an archaeological survey of the wider area in preparation for the dualling of the A9.
“This is a fantastic opportunity as, hopefully, the survey will uncover artefacts and new information that will allow us to understand more about the events of July 27, 1689.”