An equestrian statue (1964) of Robert Bruce (1274-1329), erected inside the rotunda, marks the king's command post on the eve of the Battle of Bannockburn where, on 24 June 1314, he routed the English troops. Bannockburn was a turning point in the war for Scottish independence. The Visitors Centre shows a video and a 3D animation about the battle, and has exhibits on the Kingdom of Scotland, Robert Bruce and the struggle for independence.