Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle is a medieval fortress located on the northeastern coast of Scotland. Perched atop a rocky headland, it offers breathtaking views of the North Sea. The castle’s dramatic location and its ruins evoke a sense of history and intrigue. It has played a pivotal role in Scotland’s past, witnessing several significant events. The castle’s strategic position made it an important asset for whoever held it, serving as a military stronghold, a royal residence, and a fortress of refuge throughout its history.

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Historical Background of Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle’s origins trace back to the Early Middle Ages. However, most of the remaining structures date from the 15th and 16th centuries. The site was likely chosen for its natural defensive advantages. The Picts, an ancient Celtic people, may have used the site before the medieval castle was constructed.

The castle we see today was largely developed by the Earls Marischal, once one of the most powerful families in Scotland. They owned Dunnottar from the 14th century until the earldom was forfeited in the 18th century. The Keith family, who held the title of Earl Marischal, were responsible for much of the construction.

Dunnottar has a storied past, including being the place where the Scottish crown jewels were hidden from Oliver Cromwell’s invading army in the 17th century. It also served as a prison for Covenanters and played a role in the Jacobite risings.

The castle was abandoned in the 18th century after the last Earl Marischal was implicated in the Jacobite rebellion of 1715. The buildings fell into disrepair, and it wasn’t until the 20th century that restoration efforts began. Today, Dunnottar is a popular tourist attraction, known for its history and stunning scenery.

While not “discovered” in the traditional sense, the castle’s ruins have been the subject of historical interest for centuries. Its importance has been recognized in modern times, and it is now cared for by Historic Scotland.

About Dunnottar Castle

Dunnottar Castle’s ruins are extensive, showcasing a variety of building styles. The remaining structures include the 14th-century keep, the 16th-century palace, and various other buildings. The castle’s design utilized the natural defensive features of the cliffside.

The construction of Dunnottar Castle used local red sandstone, which has weathered over the centuries. The fortress was accessed via a narrow strip of land, which added to its defensibility. The castle’s layout was complex, with buildings added by successive generations.

Architectural highlights include the keep, which is the oldest part of the castle, and the chapel, which dates back to the 16th century. The palace is notable for its large windows, which suggest it was built for comfort as well as defense.

The castle’s grounds also feature a 17th-century barracks, stables, and storehouses. These buildings indicate the castle’s role as a garrison fortress. The gatehouse, with its imposing entrance, remains a striking feature of the ruins.

Despite its ruinous state, Dunnottar Castle continues to attract visitors. Its architecture offers a glimpse into the past and the evolution of castle design in Scotland.

Theories and Interpretations

Dunnottar Castle’s history is well-documented, but there are still theories and interpretations surrounding its past. Its use as a military stronghold is clear, but some aspects of its history are less certain.

One theory suggests that an early Christian community might have existed at Dunnottar before the medieval castle. This is based on the presence of a chapel on the site, although concrete evidence is lacking.

The castle’s role in hiding the Scottish crown jewels during the English Civil War is well-known. However, the exact details of how the jewels were hidden and recovered are the subject of speculation and legend.

Historians have matched the castle’s architectural features to historical records to date the structures. Carbon dating and other archaeological methods have also been used to understand the site’s history.

The castle’s decline and eventual abandonment have led to interpretations about the life and politics of the time. The forfeiture of the Earls Marischal played a significant role in the castle’s history.

At a glance

Country: Scotland

Civilization: Picts, Scottish

Age: Earliest structures from the Early Middle Ages, main construction in the 15th and 16th centuries AD

Conclusion and Sources

The following reputable sources were used to gather information for this article:

• Wikipedia – Dunnottar Castle