That’s a relief – Great Polish Map restored to former glory
IT was built as a gift for the people of Scotland for the hospitality they showed to Polish soldiers during the Second World War.
Now, after decades of neglect, the 165ft by 130ft Great Polish Map of Scotland has been restored to its former glory.
The three-dimensional relief map was built by a team of Poles in the grounds of Barony Castle Hotel in Eddleston, Peebleshire.
The idea for the original project came from Jan Tomasik, proprietor of the hotel from 1969 to 1977. He was a Polish soldier who chose to stay on in Scotland after the war.
The map fell into disrepair during the 1980s but a restoration campaign began in 2010, when a group of volunteers founded Mapa Scotland, a charitable trust, to carry out the necessary work. After securing a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the map has now been restored and was unveiled yesterday.
Polish consul general Ireneusz Truszkowski said: ‘We are delighted to officially unveil the restored Great Polish Map of Scotland in the same year Poland is celebrating its 100th anniversary of regaining independence.’
Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: ‘The Great Polish Map of Scotland is a fine example of Scotland’s ties and friendship with Poland. I congratulate the individuals and volunteers involved in its restoration.’