First Minister Alex Salmond has paid tribute to all the people who played a part in winning World Heritage Site status for the Antonine Wall.

The most northern frontier of the Roman Empire was named of global significance by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee in July and Mr Salmond will tonight welcome many of those who worked on the bid to a reception at Edinburgh Castle’s Great Hall.

The First Minister said: "From the Firth of Forth to the Clyde, the Antonine Wall marks the point where the tide turned for the Roman Empire in Scotland. Built by Hadrian’s successor, Emperor Antoninus Pius, it is the furthest frontier and a testament to design and ambition – attributes that echo throughout Scottish history.

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"With this wall added to Scotland’s collection of internationally recognised historic sites, Scotland can be hugely proud that so much of our heritage is recognised not only for its impact on our own evolution and identity but for its contribution to the World.

"Next year, with the Scotland’s Year of Homecoming, we have an opportunity to celebrate that contribution. The opening of the Antonine Wall Centre at the Hunterian Museum in 2009 will be a great addition to the cultural experience on offer and I hope that the newly achieved status of our great wall might even inspire returning friends and family to walk the Antonine Way!"

The nomination for World Heritage Site status began in March 2003 and was led by Historic Scotland officials with support from the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland (RCAHMS) and the five local authorities along the line of the Wall: East Dunbartonshire, Falkirk, Glasgow, North Lanarkshire and West Dunbartonshire Councils. The Antonine Wall now joins Hadrian’s Wall and the German limes as part of the transnational Frontiers of the Roman Empire World Heritage Site.

(GK)