Dunnottar Castle

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Dunnottar Castle

 

The importance of Donnottar Castle’s role in Scottish history becomes apparent as you explore through its extensive buildings. From the barracks to the keep, stables, lodgings, storehouses, drawing room, and chapel, the secrets of this impregnable fortress is fascinating to unravel.

Among Scotland’s most notable notables to have graced Donnattar Castle are Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace, King Charles II, and the Marquis of Montrose, all, at one time or other, exalted the Castle with their presence.

Dunnottar Castle is most famous as the stronghold of a small garrison which held out against Cromwell’s mighty army for 8 months. This resulted in the salvation of the ‘Honours of Scotland’ and the Scottish Crown Jewels from certain destruction. The Royal Sceptre, Crown, and Sword are proudly displayed presently at Edinburgh Castle.

The “Whig’s Vault” was a prison designed in 1685 for Covenanters who would not acknowledge the Monarch’s supremacy over religion. This prison was housed within Dunnottar Castle and is considered a dark chapter in the castle’s history.

The Marischal Earls once called Dunnottar Castle home. They were one of the most powerful and influential families in the country. For his participation in the 1715 Jacobite uprising, the last Earl Marischal was convicted of treason. This resulted in the confiscation of Dunnottar Castle and all his possessions by the state.

The Dunnottar Castle buildings since then fell into disrepair. But in 1925, through the graces of the first Viscountess Cowdray, the Castle underwent thorough repair and renovation. Thereafter, the Castle became open to public viewing.