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Linlithgow Palace party like 1503 Linlithgow Palace party like 1503
(19 minutes later)
One of the centrepiece events of Scotland's year of Homecoming has been taking place in Linlithgow. One of the centrepiece events of Scotland's year of Homecoming has taken place in Linlithgow.
Visitors to Party at the Palace have been given a taste of life as it would have been in 1503. About 10,000 Visitors to Party at the Palace were given a taste of life as it would have been in 1503.
This was a momentous year, with James IV marrying Margaret Tudor - and Scotland signing "the Treaty of Perpetual Peace" with England. The year was a momentous one, with James IV marrying Margaret Tudor - and Scotland signing "the Treaty of Perpetual Peace" with England.
Celebrations included an 80-strong procession escorting the "king and his new queen" to Linlithgow Palace.Celebrations included an 80-strong procession escorting the "king and his new queen" to Linlithgow Palace.
The procession included dozens of courtiers and the followers of four great noble families whose champions then took part in a jousting contest. The procession featured dozens of courtiers and the followers of four great noble families whose champions then took part in a jousting contest.
Historical importance The event was attended by First Minister Alex Salmond, who was born and raised in Linlithgow.
John Graham, chief executive of Historic Scotland, said: "This is one of the largest events we have ever staged. He said: "The wedding of King James IV and Margaret Tudor, ultimately leading to the Union of the Crown, is undoubtedly one of the most significant moments in Scotland's history.
"It will be a weekend absolutely packed full of medieval colour and spectacle - and will recall the days when Scotland's kings and queens were frequent visitors to their great palace in Linlithgow. "This weekend's celebrations at Linlithgow are the perfect example of how Homecoming Scotland is encouraging, supporting and raising awareness of Scotland's rich history and heritage to local, national and international audiences."
"With more than 120 performers there will be a huge amount to do and see with jesters, poets, storytellers, musicians, dancers, falconers and cooks filling the palace. John Graham, chief executive of Historic Scotland, said the party was one of the largest events it had ever staged.
"There will even be an alchemist trying to turn ordinary metals into gold, and an etiquette tutor who will teach young visitors what to do and say if they bump into the king and queen."
Marie Christie, director of Homecoming Scotland 2009, said: "Party at the Palace is based on a period of significant historical importance and looks set to be a fantastic fun-filled weekend of entertainment for all ages. We are delighted that this event is part of the national Homecoming celebrations."