About the Stone of Destiny

The Stone of Destiny is an ancient symbol of Scottish monarchy and kingdom. A king-making stone, it was used in the inauguration of Scottish monarchs at Scone, 3 miles upriver of Perth on the River Tay. Its first documented use was in 1249 for the inauguration of the boy-king, Alexander III.

Taken as war loot by King Edward I of England fifty years after Alexander became king, the Stone was carried to Westminster Abbey in London; a symbol of Edward’s victory and his perceived right to rule. Returning home to Perthshire for the first time in 700 years, this iconic artefact is still used to crown kings and queens of the United Kingdom today, including the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023.

Images of the Stone of Destiny, © Culture Perth and Kinross

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Stone of Destiny arrive in Perth?

The Stone arrived shortly before the Museum opened in March 2024.

Where was the Stone before coming to Perth?

The Stone was formerly displayed at Edinburgh Castle.

Why did it move from Edinburgh Castle?

There was a period of public engagement in 2019 where the public were asked for their thoughts about the future home for the Stone. After careful consideration, the final decision on the new home of the Stone was reached by the Commissioners for the Regalia and the Scottish Government.

Why move it again, after all it was only moved in 1996 to Scotland?

The Stone of Destiny has been in Edinburgh since 1996 when its return marked an important moment in Scottish history with the opening of the Scottish Parliament and devolution. But we believe it is rather overlooked in Edinburgh Castle these days.

In Perth, the Stone is the stunning centrepiece of displays telling the story of how Scotland was shaped from a rich and stunning selection of objects  including  Neolithic Stone Balls and enigmatic Pictish Stones. These displays will help to give the Stone real meaning and context.

Is the Stone on display the real Stone of Destiny?

The authenticity of the Stone is hotly debated. Science tells us that the Stone widely regarded as the Stone of Scone is made of sandstone quarried in the Scone area. Others prefer to believe in the various myths about the Stone, including that it originated in Egypt or the Middle East and arrived in Scotland via Ireland. The new Museum reflects these the contrasting views and how they came about. In the end, visitors will be able to make up their own minds.

Why didn’t the Stone go to Scone Palace?

We have worked closely with Scone Palace in the development of the new Museum and the Stone Experience. The Museum is an excellent complement to the visitor experience at Scone, and both benefit from the Stone being returned home to Perthshire. By housing the Stone in Perth Museum, we have ensured that this important object is free for all to view for the first time in modern history.

How is the Stone kept safe, secure, and preserved for future generations?

We have a highly experienced Museum team with knowledge and experience of caring for ancient objects. The Stone is kept in a specially-designed case in a secure room and continuously monitored to ensure environmental conditions (temperature, humidity and light) are stable. We also have a range of 24/7 security measures in place at the Museum to protect this precious object. We appreciate visitors’ cooperation when following instructions from staff in the Stone of Destiny experience. 

What is the Stone of Scone?

The Stone of Scone is the original name for what later became more commonly known as the Stone of Destiny. It is known as the Stone of Scone because of its original association with Scone, near Perth, as the place where kings were made in Scotland.

When did the Stone first leave Perthshire?

The Stone was taken in 1296 to Westminster where it stayed until 1996, with a brief removal in 1950 by a group of students. It was taken originally by King Edward I of England as the spoils of war in the First Scottish War of Independence