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!

 

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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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