The Rich History of Tarbert Castle
Greetings, history enthusiasts! Let’s embark on a journey to
the picturesque village of Tarbert in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, where Tarbert
Castle stands as a testament to centuries of Scottish history.
A Glimpse into History:
712: The earliest recorded mention of Tarbert Castle dates
back to 712 when it was burned by King Selbach mac Ferchair of Cenél Loairn and
of Dál Riata.
1292: The castle was granted to John Balliol by Edward I of
England, marking its significance as a royal stronghold.
1325: Robert the Bruce enlarged and fortified the castle,
adding extensive curtain walls and drum towers that enclosed nearly two acres.
This expansion included a hall, chapel, houses, workshops, and a brewhouse,
making it a bustling hub of activity.
1494: James IV of Scotland repaired the castle and built the
tower house, using it as a base for his operations in the Western Highlands2.
He brought artillery, victualled and garrisoned the castle, and even summoned
Parliament to meet in Tarbert.
1687: The castle was involved in a skirmish when Walter
Campbell of Skipness Castle seized it as a stronghold for Archibald Campbell,
9th Earl of Argyll, during the Monmouth Rebellion.
1705: The McAlister family of Tarbert tenanted the castle under
charter from the Campbells. However, by 1760, the castle fell into disrepair,
and much of its stone was used to build the village and harbour.
Architectural Marvel: Tarbert Castle’s strategic location on
the southern shore of East Loch Tarbert provided a commanding view of the
harbour and the surrounding landscape. The castle’s design, with its extensive
curtain walls and drum towers, showcases the evolution of Scottish castle
architecture over centuries.
Strategic Location: Situated at the north end of the Kintyre
peninsula, Tarbert Castle’s location was crucial for controlling the land link
between Tarbert’s East and West Lochs. Its position made it a valuable
stronghold in Scotland’s medieval power struggles.
Today, Tarbert Castle stands as a community-owned heritage
park, maintained by local volunteers. The ruins offer visitors a fascinating
glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and the lives of those who once occupied
this stronghold.
📸 Have you visited Tarbert
Castle? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!
Feel free to add any personal touches or additional
information to make this post your own!
For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:
https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/
https://www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk/the-best-castles/scenic-castles/tarbert-castle/
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