The new title recognises the role of Inverness in modern Scotland and its place in the country's long and colourful history.

Inverness facts

1) The population of Inverness is approximately 65,000.

2) Inverness can be found at latitude 57 29 North and longitude 4 14 West.

3)Distance to Glasgow - 109 miles; Edinburgh - 113 miles.

St. Andrews Cathedral is a dominant feature

4)The headquarters of the University of the Highlands and Islands is in Inverness.

5)The main football team, Inverness Caledonian Thistle, was formed in 1994 with the amalgamation of Highland league sides Inverness Caledonian and Inverness Thistle.

6)Local sites of interest include Inverness Castle, Abertarff House, St Andrews Cathedral, Old High Church, Flora MacDonald Statue, Bow Court and the Town House.

Brief history

560AD - St Columba is said to have visited the Royal Court of the Pictish King Bridei at Inverness.

1040 - Legend says that Macbeth built his stronghold in Inverness.

1158 - Inverness is established as a Royal Burgh by King David of Scotland.

Inverness Castle has played a major part in the city's history

1307 - Robert the Bruce takes the first of Inverness's five castles from English forces.

1562 - Mary Queen of Scots hangs the governor of Inverness castle for refusing her entry.

1746 - Bonnie Prince Charlie's troops are defeated at the Battle of Culloden.

1822 The Caledonian Canal completed linking Inverness to the west coast of Scotland.

1921 - Inverness Town Hall hosts the only UK cabinet meeting ever held outside of London.