Launch of Treasured Places exhibition

The free exhibition, Treasured Places: 100 Years of RCAHMS, comprises over 180 fascinating drawings and photographs over two floors of Edinburgh's City Art Centre, many on public display for the first time. It explores the unique role that RCAHMS has been undertaking since 1908 creating a collection recording Scotland's buildings, archaeology and industry for the nation. This work and this exhibition reflect the lives of the people of Scotland from our earliest history to the present day.

Highlights include stunning aerial photographs of Woden Law, an iron age hill fort revealed through the light of a winter sun on snow; intricate survey drawings of a Pictish cross slab at Glamis; fascinating original architect's drawings including the stunning W. H. Playfair elevation of Donaldson's School for the Deaf in Edinburgh; survey photographs offering a glimpse back in time to the rapidly changing face of our industrial heritage; as well as captivating historical photographs from the 1901 Glasgow International Exhibition.

Also featured are Scotland's top ten treasured places as selected by a public vote launched by RCAHMS in September 2007. The winner, Lady Victoria Colliery, was announced in January 2008 and is shown alongside the specially commissioned poem by Valerie Gillies, Edinburgh Makar from 2005–08. A selection of public comments and reflections made throughout the vote offer diverse and poignant insights into our understanding of, and emotional connection to, the places we treasure.

Treasured Places: 100 Years of RCAHMS also includes activities for families and a public events programme.

The exhibition runs until 18 January.

For more information visit www.treasuredplaces.org.