The Unknown Cathedral uncovered

Think of an imposing 12th century landmark that dominates the Kirkwall townscape and you'll probably say St Magnus Cathedral.

But although the building is a familiar sight, just how well you know it could be put to the test during the Orkney Museum's summer exhibition.

Through a series of photographs, paintings, artefacts and models, "The Unknown Cathedral" focuses on lesser-known aspects of the building.

Tom Muir of Orkney Museums Service said the photographs of the building concentrated on less familiar themes, such as changes in masonry and the profusion of carvings that you wouldn't normally notice.

"Other photographs are of restoration work in the past which shows how the outside appearance of the place has changed over the years," he explained.

Paintings on show include those by Stanley Cursiter of the figures in St Rognvald's Chapel, and another by J. Spottiswoode, used as an engraving in George Barry's The History of the Orkney Islands (1805).

Among the exhibits is a model of the cathedral made by a local mason sometime around 1880, and a ship's sign which hung in the sailor's loft - a gallery in the Cathedral reserved for visiting seamen of suitable rank.

The exhibition also includes children's activities, photo albums, pieces of carved stone, mason's tools and video displays.

A book, The Unknown Cathedral, co-edited by Steve Callaghan and Bryce Wilson, is being brought out to coincide with the event.

"It's really done with everybody in mind," added Mr Muir. "It is not just tailored to local residents and not just tailored to tourists but everybody, in a fashion that is not patronising or over-complicated. There will be lots to see and it will be a very colourful display."