The Castles of Scotland

Photo by Joyce Krietsch
The castles of Scotland throughout history have typically played a role of defense.  From the commencement of the kingdom of the Scots in 843 under King Kenneth MacAlpine until Union with the English Crown in 1707, the castles of Scotland have served as impregnable creations which served as the administration center and protection for the reigning lord, his family, servants and soldiers.  

Magnificent castles are spread throughout Scotland, standing defiant and determined against the ravages of time, weather, and history.  Each have their unique view and experience of the past.  We invite you visit the castles of Scotland.

Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle is located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, near the River Dee.  The original castle was constructed in the fifteenth century. Following a visit to Scotland by Queen Victoria in 1842, she became enchanted by the Scottish Highlands .  In 1848, Queen Victoria stated in her diary that, "All seemed to breathe freedom and peace..." in the area.  Her physician, Sir James Clark, felt the climate would be beneficial to Albert's rheumatism.  The Royals needed little incentive to make Balmoral Castle their summer residence.

Balmoral Castle Purchased

Prince Albert purchased Balmoral Castle and the surrounding estate for 31,000 pounds in 1852.  The old castle was considered too small for the Royal family.  Using grey granite quarried on the estate, a new castle was built a short distance north on the estate.  Constructed in the Scottish Baronial style, Victoria commented in her diary, "a pretty little castle in the Scottish style."

The Tartan

The family wore articles of Scottish clothing when they stayed at Balmoral Castle.  Victoria wore a tartan plaid or sash and the male royals wore the kilt.  Prince Albert went so far as to design a tartan for the family, which is still worn today.

Recommended Web sites

http://www.balmoralcastle.com
The site provides a terrific photo gallery of the castle and castle grounds (gardens).

www.royalresidences.com
The official web site.  Provides a nice history overview of Balmoral Castle.  

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