Perth’s medieval past was brought vividly back to life at the weekend.
Warriors mingled with startled shoppers as the sights, sounds and smells of ancient history were recreated in the city centre on Saturday.
King Edward Street and the High Street were transformed into a medieval fair with attractions for all ages.
Medieval music, weapons and armour, and traditional crime and punishment demonstrations from the The Knights of Monymusk proved a popular draw and music and dance from ensemble Gaita and the international tribal band Clanadonia provided the day’s soundtrack.
Also attracting the crowds were demonstrations of traditional skills including hand and wheel spinning, loom weaving and live metal casting.
Medieval woodcarving, traditional potters and a smithy also jostled for the attention of visitors.
Heraldry shields and and the art of calligraphy added to the journey back in time while a medieval-themed puppet show with Clyde Built Puppet Theatre entertained a younger audience.
A medieval encampment was set up by the Company of St Margaret while Medieval Methil offered a living history of Scotland through education, display and archaeology experiences.
History and horror tours took people on a journey into the past, taking in the city’s street and vennel network which is a survivor from medieval times.
Face painting and street entertainers also helped people become “time travellers” into the distant past.
A spit roast, Arbroath smokies and mead to drink took care of the medieval diet for the day.
The event was a hit with international visitors including Bill Mackenzie from Boston who was in Perth with his wife Mona.
“We didn’t know this was on but it certainly brings history to life,” said Mr Mackenzie, 59.
“It was great to learn a bit more about the past in such an entertaining way.”
A partnership event organised by Perth and Kinross Council and the Tay Landscape Partnership, it received funding from Heritage Lottery Fund, Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust, Gannochy Trust and others.
