Wednesday, September 18, 2024

 

Caerlaverock Castle



Where Legends and Stone Walls Converge

Greetings, fellow history enthusiasts! Let me take you on a journey to the triangular fortress that is Caerlaverock Castle, nestled in the Dumfries countryside like a sentinel from ages past. 🌿🏴󠁧󠁒󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

A Unique Shape and Storied Walls

Caerlaverock’s triangular silhouette sets it apart among British castles. As you walk its grounds, you’ll feel the strength of its stone walls, the elegance of its geometry, and the echoes of centuries.

Imagine three curtain walls converging at sharp angles, each linked by imposing corner towers. On the north side stands a twin-towered gatehouse—the Maxwells’ private domain.

Speaking of the Maxwells, they were the castle’s custodians for centuries. They repaired, upgraded, and left their mark on Caerlaverock.

Two Unforgettable Sieges

Edward I’s Siege (1300):

Picture July 1300: Edward I of England himself leading the charge. The small garrison within Caerlaverock faced the full might of the English king’s army.

Within two days, they surrendered. But the contemporary account of this siege is riveting—a tale etched into the annals of British castle history.

The Covenanters’ Siege (1640):

Fast-forward to 1640. Lord Maxwell’s loyalty to Charles I during his struggles with the Covenanters led to Caerlaverock’s last stand.

The garrison held out for 13 weeks before surrendering. The castle was stripped of valuables, and its south curtain wall demolished—forever ending its role as a defensive stronghold.



Natural Beauty and Historical Protection

Caerlaverock’s grounds, adjacent to the Caerlaverock Nature Reserve, harbor rare animals and plants. Fifteen habitats thrive here, including ancient woodland, swamp, and unimproved grassland.

These surviving ecosystems are a testament to Caerlaverock’s dual role: defender of realm and protector of nature.

Location: Castle Road End, Dumfries, DG1 4RU πŸ“ž Phone: 01387 770244 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 09:30 - 17:0012

Uncover the turbulent history of Caerlaverock Castle—a saga of sieges, loyalty, and enduring stone.

 

For more of the Castles in Scotland series visit:

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

 

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/venue-hire/weddings/find-a-venue/caerlaverock-castle/

 

https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1NTTk4vGyDXVvUWaZkYuTE6X1IA9p8A8&usp=sharing

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