В Шотландии запускают расследование: скелет средневекового кланового вождя и легенда о запретной любви

A centuries-old Highland tale of forbidden love, warfare and a legendary curse will be brought into the modern spotlight this month when true crime style investigation meets medieval mystery. For over 160 years, the heirloom had rested quietly within the private collection of the Grant family, accompanied by an intriguing letter, written in 1857, which alludes to the fact that the skull belongs to a fallen chieftain of the time. In early 2026, the current descendant, Lord Reidhaven, brought the mysterious skull to Dan Cottam, Curator of Grantown Museum in the Scottish Highlands, asking a simple question: 'Is this the skull of the medieval chieftain mentioned in the letter?’ Dan Cottam, Curator, Grantown Museum, said: “When Lord Reidhaven first approached me with this story, I was immediately drawn in. The document discovered alongside the skull recounts a 13th-century tale of a young Grant clansman who eloped with the daughter of a fierce MacGregor chieftain. As they fled, the couple paused in Strathspey so the young woman could give birth. When the MacGregor chieftain finally caught up with them, the Grant lad outsmarted him, convincing him that he was surrounded by a hundred armed men. “This is where the story takes a remarkable turn, and where our investigation began. What followed was a journey to uncover how much truth lay behind the tale, documenting our discoveries as they unfolded in a podcast.” The resulting investigation unfolds across a four-part true-crime style investigative podcast. Recorded live as clues and research emerged, Mr Cottam takes the skull out of its vault and consults leading forensic scientists and osteologists at Surgeons' Hall Museums and the University of Edinburgh. Listeners can follow Mr Cottam’s journey in real time as science tries to solve the cold case, culminating in Episode 4 when the results will be delivered to Lord Reidhaven. According to the legend, the skull passed down through the Grant family is said to be that of a slain chieftain. Bound to it is a story of a curse should the skull ever leave Strathspey, the power and standing of Clan Grant will fail. Complementing the podcast and exhibition is an animated short film directed by BAFTA Scotland-winner Cat Bruce. Known for her visual craftsmanship, she brings the medieval legend to life, capturing the dramatic landscapes of Strathspey, the tension of the chase, and the mythic weight of Highland clan rivalries. Ms Bruce said: “It's been so lovely to work on a story set in Strathspey where I’m from. It’s a truly Highland tale, with love and treachery and we’ve been able to dive into the medieval world of folklore and use design elements from ancient manuscripts. I discovered they drew creatures in the margins to illustrate deeds and sometimes violence. They’ve crept into the film and added to its enchantment. READ MORE: 'They will not be leaving this place': How Highland rebel women saved their land Remains of two Bronze Age people found in long-lost burial chamber by farmer The Wemyss Caves: Mystery as storm uncovers skull and bones “It's also really exciting working on something that comes from a story that has been told for centuries and with the investigation of a real human skull running alongside, it’s been a thrilling adventure at every turn.” Throughout the series, the project addresses the ethical and curatorial responsibilities involved in handling human remains - balancing bioarchaeological science with respect and historic stewardship. Mr Cottam added: “Handling human remains requires absolute ethical responsibility, care, and historical sensitivity. Through this investigation, we weren't just examining a physical object, we are asking how myth, oral tradition, and modern bioarchaeology intersect - all whilst dealing with the skull of a human being. The podcast captures every genuine moment of discovery as we unpack medieval Highland history in a way we haven’t ever done so before and working with Cat Bruce has really helped us to bring this incredible story to life.” The exhibition will launch on Monday, September 7, at Grantown Museum, while the accompanying podcast will be released weekly from Friday, September 4, across all major podcast platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts) and on YouTube.