Ancient Secrets of Castle Sween!

 

Greetings, history enthusiasts! Let’s journey to the rugged shores of Loch Sween in Knapdale, where Castle Sween stands as one of Scotland’s oldest stone castles. This remarkable fortress has a rich history and has been home to several notable clans over the centuries.

 

A Glimpse into History:

Late 11th Century: Castle Sween, also known as Caisteal Suibhne, was built by Suibhne (Sven) ‘the Red’, a chieftain of Irish descent and ancestor of the MacSweens. This makes it one of the earliest stone castles in Scotland.

13th Century: The MacSweens held the castle until the mid-13th century when it passed to the Stewart Earls of Menteith.

14th Century: In the late 1300s, the castle came under the control of the MacDonald Lords of the Isles1. During their tenure, the MacNeils and later the MacMillans served as castellans.

1481: James III of Scotland, wary of the MacDonalds’ power, entrusted the castle to the Campbell Earls of Argyll.

1647: During the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, Castle Sween was attacked and burnt by Alasdair MacColla and his Irish Confederate followers.

1933: The castle was placed under the care of the Historic Building and Monuments Directorate (now Historic Environment Scotland).

Architectural Marvel: Castle Sween features a quadrangular courtyard surrounded by a thick curtain wall, with later additions including towers and other structures. Its strategic location on a low, rocky ridge overlooking Loch Sween provided a strong defensive position and stunning views.

Strategic Location: Situated on the eastern shore of Loch Sween, the castle’s location was crucial for controlling the surrounding lands and waterways. Its position made it a valuable stronghold in Scotland’s medieval power struggles.

Today, Castle Sween stands as a scheduled monument, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The ruins provide a unique insight into the lives of those who once occupied this stronghold and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Have you visited Castle Sween? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!

#CastleSween #ScottishHistory #ClanMacSween #ClanCampbell #HistoricScotland

Feel free to add any personal touches or additional information to make this post your own!

 

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/castle-sween/

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300  #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland #CastleSween #ScottishHistory #ClanMacDougall #ClanCampbell #HistoricScotland

 

The Grandeur of Inveraray Castle!

 

Greetings, history aficionados! Let’s embark on a journey to the breathtaking shores of Loch Fyne, where Inveraray Castle stands as a magnificent testament to Scotland’s rich heritage. 🏰

 

A Glimpse into History:

 

1400s: The original Inveraray Castle was built on this site, serving as the ancestral home of the powerful Clan Campbell.

1746: The foundation stone for the current castle was laid by Archibald Campbell, the 3rd Duke of Argyll. The design was inspired by a sketch from the renowned architect Vanbrugh, known for Blenheim Palace.

1770s: The village of Inveraray was relocated to provide the castle with a more secluded and picturesque setting.

1877: A devastating fire led to significant renovations, including the addition of a third floor and conical roofs on the corner towers, giving the castle its distinctive Gothic Revival appearance.

1975: Another fire struck, but thanks to a global fundraising effort, the castle was restored, and the 12th Duke and his family moved back in.

Architectural Marvel: Inveraray Castle is one of the earliest examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Its grand design features a blend of baroque, Palladian, and Gothic styles, making it a true architectural gem. The castle’s interiors boast neoclassical rooms created in the 18th century, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and elegance.

 

Strategic Location: Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne, Scotland’s longest sea loch, Inveraray Castle offers stunning views and a serene setting. Its strategic location has made it a significant stronghold throughout history.

 

Modern Era: Today, Inveraray Castle remains the seat of the Dukes of Argyll, chiefs of Clan Campbell. The 13th Duke and his family reside in private apartments within the castle, while the rest of the castle is open to the public. Visitors can explore its rich history, admire the extensive collection of weapons, and enjoy the beautifully landscaped gardens.

 

Have you visited Inveraray 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!

https://www.inveraray-castle.com/

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300  #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland #DuntruneCastle #DuntruneCastle #ScottishHistory #ClanMacDougall #ClanCampbell #HistoricScotland

 

Duntrune Castle

A venerable fortress perched on the north side of Loch Crinan, gazing across the water at the charming village of Crinan in Argyll and Bute, Scotland.

 

A Journey Through Centuries:

13th Century Origins: Duntrune Castle traces its roots back to the 13th century when the MacDougall clan, a formidable force in medieval Scotland, raised its sturdy walls. Imagine the clang of swords, the echoes of Gaelic, and the winds whispering secrets across the loch as they built this stronghold. Alongside Dunollie Castle near Oban, Duntrune stood as part of a network of MacDougall defences.

Campbells Take the Helm: As the tides of history shifted, the Clan Campbell—those indomitable Campbells—seized Duntrune. It became the seat of the Campbells of Duntroon, echoing with their footsteps, feasts, and whispered intrigues. Picture tartan-clad lairds pacing its halls, their eyes fixed on distant horizons.

MacDonalds at the Gates: The 17th century brought turmoil. Rival clans clashed, and the MacDonalds, led by the fierce Alasdair Mac Colla, laid siege to Duntrune. Stone walls trembled, arrows flew, and echoes of defiance reverberated across the loch. The castle held its ground, but not without scars.

Changing Hands: The Campbells eventually parted ways with Duntrune in 1792, passing the torch (or rather, the claymore) to the Malcolms of Poltalloch. And so, the castle’s story continued, weaving through generations, each leaving their mark on its ancient stones.

Present-Day Guardians: Today, Duntrune Castle belongs to Robin Neill Malcolm, the current clan chief of the Clan Malcolm. Imagine him standing on the battlements, surveying the same waters that have witnessed centuries of drama, love, and loss. The curtain wall, weathered by time, still whispers tales of old, while the tower house—its heart—dates back to the 17th century.

Silver Screen and Album Art: Oh, and did you know? The gateposts of Skyfall Lodge—the childhood home of James Bond in the film “Skyfall”—were inspired by Duntrune’s own gateposts. And if you’re a Blue Öyster Cult fan, a photograph of Duntrune Castle graces the original album inner sleeve art of "Imaginos".

Lochside Views and Haunting Whispers: Imagine standing on Duntrune’s ramparts, the wind tangling your hair, and Loch Crinan stretching before you—a mirror reflecting centuries. The ghosts of MacDougalls, Campbells, and MacDonalds may linger, sharing their stories with the waves.

Have you visited Duntrune Castle? Share your photos, musings, or even your best historical conspiracy theories in the comments below! Let’s keep the castle’s legacy alive.

Feel free to add your own flair or embellishments—it’s all part of the castle’s magic!

http://www.duntrunecastle.com/the-castle--gardens.html

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300  #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland #DuntruneCastle #DuntruneCastle #ScottishHistory #ClanMacDougall #ClanCampbell #HistoricScotland

 

History of Castle Stalker

 

Greetings, history lovers! Let’s embark on a journey to the stunning west coast of Scotland, where Castle Stalker stands majestically on a tidal islet in Loch Laich. This iconic four-storey tower house has a rich history and has been home to several notable clans over the centuries.

A Glimpse into History:

1320: The original structure on this site was a small fort built by Clan MacDougall, who were then the Lords of Lorn. The name “Stalker” comes from the Gaelic “Stalcaire,” meaning “hunter” or “falconer.”

1388: The Lordship of Lorn passed to the Stewarts, who are believed to have built the castle in its present form around the 1440s. Sir John Stewart, the then Lord of Lorn, played a significant role in its construction.

1620: A drunken bet led to the castle passing to Clan Campbell. The Campbells and Stewarts had a history of rivalry, and the castle changed hands between these clans a couple of times.

1840: The Campbells abandoned the castle after it lost its roof. It remained in a state of disrepair for many years.

1908: Charles Stewart of Achara purchased the castle and began basic conservation work.

1965: Lt. Col. D. R. Stewart Allward acquired the castle and undertook a full restoration over ten years. Thanks to his efforts, Castle Stalker is now one of the best-preserved medieval tower houses in western Scotland.

Architectural Marvel: Castle Stalker is a classic example of a Scottish tower house, featuring thick stone walls, narrow windows, and a crenellated parapet. Its isolated location on a tidal islet adds to its mystique and charm, making it a favourite subject for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.

Strategic Location: Situated in the Lynn of Lorn National Scenic Area, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Its strategic position made it a valuable stronghold in Scotland’s medieval power struggles.

Today, Castle Stalker remains in private ownership but is open to the public at selected times during the summer. It stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the clans who once called it home.

Have you visited Castle Stalker? 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!

 

https://hiddenscotland.co/listings/castle-stalker/

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300 #CastleStalker #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland #CastleStalker #ScottishHistory #ClanMacDougall #ClanStewart #ClanCampbell #HistoricScotland

 

Old Inverlochy Castle! 

 

Greetings, history buffs! Let’s journey to the majestic Highlands of Scotland, where the ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle stand as a testament to centuries of Scottish history.

 

A Glimpse into History:

 

13th Century: Built around 1270-1280 by John “the Black” Comyn, Lord of Badenoch and Lochaber, Old Inverlochy Castle was a formidable stronghold for the powerful Clan Comyn. It may have been constructed on the site of an earlier Pictish fortification.

1306: After Robert the Bruce ascended to the Scottish throne, he captured and burned the castle, leading to the Comyns’ dispossession.

1431: The castle witnessed the first Battle of Inverlochy, where Alexander MacDonald, Lord of the Isles, defeated King James I’s larger army.

1501: Control of the castle passed to Clan Cameron, who held it until 1505.

1505: The partially ruined castle was granted to Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly, who was tasked with repairing it for use as a Royal garrison.

1645: During the Wars of the Three Kingdoms, the castle served as a stopping-off point for the royalist army of James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose, culminating in a victory for the royalists in the second Battle of Inverlochy.

19th Century: The estate was bought by James Scarlett, 1st Baron Abinger, who made minor enhancements to the castle in preparation for Queen Victoria’s visit in 1873.

Architectural Marvel: Old Inverlochy Castle is unique in that it has remained largely unchanged since its construction. The castle features a quadrangular courtyard surrounded by a substantial curtain wall, with round towers at each corner. The largest of these, known as the Comyn Tower, served as the castle’s keep.

 

Strategic Location: Situated on the south bank of the River Lochy, the castle commands the entrance to the Great Glen, a key passage through the Scottish Highlands. Its strategic position made it a vital stronghold in Scotland’s medieval power struggles.

 

Today, Old Inverlochy Castle stands as a scheduled monument, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The ruins provide a unique insight into the lives of those who once occupied this stronghold and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Have you visited Old Inverlochy Castle? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!

 

#OldInverlochyCastle #ScottishHistory #ClanComyn #ClanCameron #HistoricScotland

https://www.inverlochycastle.co.uk/

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

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

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300 #OldInverlochyCastle #IsleOfMull #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland

 

Discover the Mysteries of Gylen Castle!

 

Greetings, history enthusiasts! Let’s set sail to the rugged Isle of Kerrera, where Gylen Castle stands proudly—a weathered sentinel overlooking the Firth of Lorne.

 

A Brief History:

1582: The MacDougalls, a clan with a penchant for impressive architecture, raised Gylen Castle. Duncan MacDougall, their chief architect (okay, maybe not officially, but let’s pretend), put his heart and stones into this tower house. Picture it: rugged cliffs, salty sea breezes, and a castle rising defiantly against the elements.

1647: Fast-forward to the tumultuous Wars of the Three Kingdoms. General David Leslie, leading the Covenanters (think of them as the historical Avengers), decided to crash Gylen’s party. The castle was besieged, flames danced on its walls, and the Brooch of Lorn—yes, that very brooch from Robert the Bruce’s cloak—was swiped. Not cool, General Leslie!

19th Century: The Campbells of Inverawe (who, by the way, sound like they could be characters in a Highland romance novel) finally returned the Brooch of Lorn. It’s like a historical game of “Finders Keepers” but with more kilts and fewer playground rules.

The Setting: Imagine rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and a castle silhouette against the moody Scottish sky. Gylen Castle perches on a rocky promontory, surveying the Firth of Lorne like a wise old seafarer. It’s the kind of place where you half expect to find a hidden treasure chest or a ghostly bagpiper playing tunes from centuries past.

 

Fun Fact: Gylen Castle was made a scheduled monument in 1931. So, if you’re ever in the neighbourhood, swing by and pay your respects to the MacDougalls and their epic architectural endeavors.

 

Have you visited Gylen Castle? Share your photos and tales in the comments below!

 

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

https://www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk/the-best-castles/scenic-castles/gylen-castle/

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

 

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300 #MoyCastle #IsleOfMull #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland

 

Unveil the Enchanting History of Moy Castle!

 

Nestled on the picturesque Isle of Mull, Moy Castle is a captivating historical site with a rich and storied past. Built in the 15th century by Hector MacLean, the castle has been a significant stronghold for the Maclean family and has witnessed numerous historical events that have shaped Scotland’s history.

Historical Highlights:

15th Century: Moy Castle was constructed by Hector MacLean, brother of Maclean of Duart, and became the seat of the Maclaines of Lochbuie. The castle’s strategic location provided a strong defensive position and a commanding view over Loch Buie.

1494: The first surviving mention of the castle appears in a royal charter confirming that John Maclean, 5th Laird, held his lands from the Lord of the Isles. This charter highlights the castle’s importance in the feudal system of the time.

1690: The castle was captured by Clan Campbell due to the Maclaines’ involvement in the Jacobite rising of 16893. This event marked a significant shift in power and control in the region.

1697: The castle was restored to the Maclaines after being surrendered to the Earl of Argyll3. This restoration underscored the resilience and determination of the Maclaines to reclaim their ancestral home.

1752: Moy Castle was abandoned as a residence when Lochbuie House was built nearby. The new house provided more modern accommodations, leading to the castle’s decline.

Architectural Features: Moy Castle is a three-storey tower house with a garret. The ground floor contains a well, cut into solid rock, which always has fresh water. The castle’s impressive barrel-vaulted chambers and thick stone walls are a testament to medieval architecture. The crenellated parapet and remains of two cap-houses at the upper level add to its historic charm.

Cultural Significance: Moy Castle played a crucial role in the history of Scotland, particularly during the turbulent times of clan rivalries and Jacobite uprisings. Its capture and subsequent restoration reflect the shifting allegiances and power struggles that defined the era. The castle’s connection to the Maclean family, one of the prominent clans in Scottish history, further enhances its cultural significance.

Today, Moy Castle stands as a scheduled monument, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. The ruins provide a fascinating insight into the lives of those who once occupied this stronghold and the historical events that unfolded within its walls.

Have you visited Moy Castle? Share your photos and experiences in the comments below!

 

https://castlesinscotland.blogspot.com/

https://www.isle-of-mull.net/attractions/history/castles/moy-castle/

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

 

#scotlandtravel #scotlandexplore #scotland #scotlandbymotorhome #motorhome #motorhomelife #homeiswhereyouparkit #vanlife #vanlifeuk #searchforsites #park4night #CamperUK #motorhometouringscotland #nc500 #northcoast500 #se250 #sw300 #MoyCastle #IsleOfMull #ScottishHistory #ClanMaclean #HistoricScotland