Do you know what Scotland’s recognition worldwide is? You might be thinking about their traditional attire, Scottish Kilts. Undoubtedly, you are right, but not only kilts but Scotland pioneers in many other things, including the clan system. Similarly, Scottish castles are their identity that served as strongholds of clans. This information will tell you about the importance of castles in history and some Iconic Scottish Castles that were strongholds for clans.
Importance of Castles for Clans
Castles were important to clans because they provided protection, a place for administration, and a status symbol. One significant reason for clans to build a castle was to protect their people and keep out rivals and invaders. Similarly, fortresses were used to attack enemy territory as a base of operations.
Furthermore, castles symbolized status during times of war and peace. Powerful lords used lavish architectural styles and decoration to display their wealth and power. Doubtlessly, forts were of great essence for clans. Now, they are also important assets to Scotland. Millions of people from other parts of the world visit Scotland, and these castles play a specific role in attracting them.
Iconic Scottish Castles
Different resources claim Scotland had 2000-3000 castles within its boundaries. Most of them are eyewitnesses to multiple battles. Unfortunately, a majority of them are destroyed, and there is nothing to see other than the ruins and stories hidden. However, some castles manage to maintain their elegance, thanks to their clan chiefs and descendants. Here is a list of some castles.
Edinburgh Castle
Situated in the heart of Scotland, standing on a rock, Edinburgh Castle was built 1000 years ago. It took years to complete, and many builders and architects participated. It remained a stronghold of Clan Stewart for over two centuries, from 1371 to 1603.
Prior to it, the fort was known to host Robert the Bruce, who played a significant part in making Scotland free from the English throne. Clan Stewart itself was a powerful tribe and had a substantial impact on the politics of Scotland. Therefore, the Stewarts were associated with the Royal House of Stewarts, which ruled Scotland for centuries.
Balmoral Castle
Queen Victoria unintentionally comes across our minds whenever we hear the name of Balmoral Castle. Currently serving as a royal residence, the fortress does not need any introduction today. Queen Victoria owned the castle in 1852 by the Farquharson family. An eyewitness of British history, the fort has been cherishing the royal family for the last 2 centuries.
Eilean Donan Castle
Today, it is one of the most photographed ancient buildings because of its dramatic scenery. It is located on a site where three lochs meet. In the past, the fort has hosted several guests; the most powerful of them were Clan Mackenzie, MacRaes, and Lieutenant Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap.
The fortress defended its guests until the Jacobite Uprisings. During rebellions, the English military blew the castle away. It was rebuilt between 1912 and 1932. Today, it is open for visitors in summer, while in winter, one can enjoy its external beauty.
Culzean Castle
Today, Culzean Castle is considered a masterpiece. Built by Robert Adam, it provides breathtaking views of the sea and an insight into the lavish lifestyle of the Kennedy dynasty. It is positioned spectacularly on the Ayrshire cliffs.
This magnificent seat, with its elegant interiors and rich history, was once home to one of the oldest and most prominent families in southwest Scotland, including the Marquess of Ailsa. Because of its stunning location and imposing architecture, the castle is a well-liked destination for tourists wishing to experience Scotland’s past.
Urquhart Castle
Although it is now a ruin, Urquhart Castle is one of Scotland’s largest castles. It was owned by the powerful Clan Grant, who played an exceptional part in the Wars of Scottish Independence. The imposing remains and breathtaking views of the loch provide a solid connection to Scotland’s unstable past.
Blair Castle
Present in the Perthshire Highlands, Blair Castle, also known as Comyn’s Tower, is a historic fort made in 1269. It was home to the Clan Murray and the Dukes of Atholl, who were powerful tribes of the time in different eras.
With a history spanning over 700 years, Blair Castle has evolved from a medieval fortress to a grand country house, reflecting the changing fortunes of its owners. Today, extensive gardens and a vast estate surrounds this amazing fortress. Blair Castle offers a glimpse into the lives of Scotland’s monarchs and their connection to the land.
Cawdor Castle
A picturesque castle with a history connected to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Cawdor Castle reflects a flair for mystery and romance. Though its connection to the historical Macbeth is tenuous, it’s a fascinating building from the Middle Ages, with some additionsMiddle Ages, made later.
Blackness Castle
A prominent fortress on the Firth of Forth, Blackness Castle is unique. Its shape earned it the name “the ship that never sailed.” It served as a royal castle from the 15th century, a prison, and an artillery fort. In other words, its role in Scotland’s defensive history was quite impactful. The strategic location and architecture of the fort made it a mighty stronghold. Unfortunately, today, it stands as a reminder of Scotland’s complex and deep history.
Conclusion
Castles have always been of great importance worldwide, whether in Scotland or Italy. The fortresses served their owners in different ways, from residences and defenses to horrible prisons. This discussion sheds light on some iconic Scottish castles that were once the strongholds of different Scottish clans. A few of them now still are homes to their owners, while others exist as ruins narrating the stories of the past.
