Restoration work at a medieval chapel in Midlothian has finally been completed after 16 years.

In a statement, Rosslyn Chapel confirmed the historic site was now free from scaffolding.

The building, which featured in the Da Vinci Code movie, is a Category A-listed building. A major conservation project of the property commenced in 1997 after a report two years previously warned of damage caused to the stonework due to damp.

A decision was then taken to cover the building with a steel structure, which allowed the stone roof to dry out naturally. This remained in place until the summer of 2010 when stone and mortar repairs were carried out on the external walls of the chapel, as well as the pinnacles and buttresses.

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The roof on the structure is now watertight, the stained glass windows have been repaired, a new sustainable heating system has been installed and the organ has been restored. Internal lighting has also been updated, while a visitor centre has opened.

Ian Gardner, Director of Rosslyn Chapel Trust, said: "This is a great moment as the far-sighted conservation project in the chapel comes to an end and the scaffolding, which had become a near permanent feature, has all been removed.

"For the first time since 1997, visitors can now enjoy a clear and uninterrupted view of the exterior of the building, which, like the rest of the chapel, is rich in carvings and details."

Rosslyn Chapel was founded by Sir William St Clair in 1446. It took 40 years to complete.

Today, it is still privately owned by the Earl and Countess of Rosslyn and continues to be a working church, with its congregation part of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

(JP/MH)