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A complex of historic stone castle buildings in excellent condition, with slate roofs and sash and case windows. They are nestled within a rocky crag.
Science

Using science to understand an archaeological object: the Dumbarton Cross Pendant

Wednesday 9 July 2025

When we used scientific techniques on a small cross found at Dumbarton Castle, we discovered the cross might not be as old as we thought. Find out how we're using science to learn about archaeological objects and how, sometimes, we're left with more questions than answers.

A person with long back hair and a high-vis vest holding a piece of scientific equipment up to a sash and case window
Science

A modern apprenticeship in heritage science

Wednesday 5 March 2025

What does a modern apprentice in heritage science do? Our laboratory assistant Jasper shares her pathway into heritage science.

Two people raising up a wooden, square frame in a grassy area
Behind the Scenes

Preserving trades across the pond: our top 6 takeaways from the International Preservation Trades Workshop

Thursday 5 December 2024

What can we learn from building conservation practices in the USA, and what can they learn from our practices in...

A person with long black hair and square framed glasses smiling whilst seated at a desk in an office. On one of the computer screen's behind them is a picture of Mary Queen of Scot's death mask
Digital

Capturing Scotland’s heritage in 3D: How we created a 3D model of Mary Queen of Scots

Monday 15 July 2024

What is photogrammetry? Explore photogrammetry techniques and discover how we created a 3D model of Mary Queen of Scot's face.

A person looking into a microscope in a lab. Beside them is a laptop, showing them images of the stone that they can see under the microscope.
Behind the Scenes

The fascinating science of stone-matching

Wednesday 23 August 2023

Discover how Heritage Scientists are using a fascinating technique called stone-matching to care for Scotland's heritage. 

Two photographs side by side. The left one is of stonemason Luke, at a table with a block of stone and stone carving tools. The other is stonemasonry Douglas at a table with a block of stone and stonemasonry tools.
Skills

Top early career tips from award-winning stonemasons

Friday 14 July 2023

If you’re thinking of training as a stonemason, or know someone that might be interested, discover what it's like from amazing apprentices.

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Thank you

The Engine Shed is accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and National Open College Network (NOCN). The Engine Shed was supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we have been able to share knowledge of traditional building materials, develop skills and raise standards in conservation for traditional buildings.

  • Heritage Lottery Fund

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Historic Environment Scotland is the lead public body established to investigate, care for and promote Scotland’s historic environment.

© Historic Environment Scotland - Scottish Charity No. SC045925