An exhibition looking at the mysterious symbols, marks and images that were etched and painted into natural rock across Scotland has opened in West Fife.

Carving Out Connections: Scotland’s Rock Art will be on display at Aberdour Castle on selected dates until January 8.

The exhibition, which draws on the Historic Environment Scotland (HES) archives, seeks to trace the connections of rock art through time and place.

Rock art, consisting of images, symbols and marks painted or engraved onto natural rock surfaces, is a fascinating and mysterious aspect of Scotland’s past.

It can be found deep within caves, in rock shelters, and on outcrops and boulders in the open landscape.

Claire Whitbread (Image: Historic Environment Scotland) Claire Whitbread, exhibitions manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: "Pre-historic rock art is one of Scotland's greatest mysteries.

"Carvings are thought to have been created up to 6,000 years ago, with pieces discovered every year – almost a thousand have been recorded in the last decade alone – and it is likely that many further carvings have yet to be found.

"After a successful run at Fort George, this exhibition in Aberdour will allow even more people to discover the beauty and mystery of Scotland’s rock art."

Entry to the exhibition is included with admission to Aberdour Castle, but visitors should be aware that it is only accessible via a staircase.

Tickets can be booked in advance on the Historic Environment Scotland website, with free entry for Historic Scotland members.