The oldest football in the world, found in Stirling Castle, is a remarkable 500-year-old artifact that offers a glimpse into the rich history of sports and recreation in medieval Scotland. This captivating relic, discovered hidden behind the castle’s oak paneling, has captured the imagination of historians and football enthusiasts alike.
When was the Oldest Football in the World, Found in Stirling Castle, Made?
The Stirling Castle football is estimated to have been made during the reign of King James V, in the 1540s. This places the ball’s creation around 500 years ago, making it the oldest known football in the world.
Where was the Oldest Football in the World Found in Stirling Castle?
The historic football was discovered in 1981 during renovations in the Queen’s Chamber of Stirling Castle. It had been hidden behind the oak paneling that was installed in the 1540s, preserving this remarkable artifact for centuries.
What is the Oldest Football in the World, Found in Stirling Castle, Made Of?
The Stirling Castle football is made from thick leather panels that have been stitched together and turned inside out, creating a more aerodynamic design. Inside the leather exterior, the ball contains an inflated pig’s bladder, which could be topped up with air as needed.
The Size and Significance of the Oldest Football in the World
The Stirling Castle football is roughly the size of a small melon, about half the size of a modern football. This smaller size was likely more suitable for the castle’s courtyards and royal gardens, where the game was likely played.
The football’s discovery has led to the belief that it may have been used by Mary Queen of Scots, who was known to enjoy sports such as football, tennis, and golf. The ball’s presence in the Queen’s Chamber suggests it was a prized possession, perhaps even used for royal entertainment and recreation.
Visiting the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum
The oldest football in the world, found in Stirling Castle, is now housed at the Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum. The museum is located just below Castle Rock, beneath the westerly shadows of Stirling Castle, making it an ideal destination for visitors interested in the castle’s history and artifacts.
The museum is open from Thursday to Sunday, from 11 am to 4 pm, and entry is free of charge. Visitors can view the historic football in a plexiglass case, marveling at its remarkable preservation and the insights it provides into the sporting culture of 16th-century Scotland.