Eilean Donan Castle, western Highlands

© CBW/Alam

How old is this castle?. Bridging the centuries

Located at the meeting point of three sea lochs, Eilean Donan Castle is just the latest in a line of monastic cells and clan strongholds constructed on this small island since the 7th century. The first fortified castle was built in the 13th century to defend against invading Vikings who occupied much of the north of Scotland and the Western Isles at the time.

From the 14th to the 18th centuries, the castle was mostly held by the Mackenzies and defended by the Macraes, both Highland clans, but it was destroyed by the Royal Navy during the 1719 Jacobite Rising.

Centuries later, it was rebuilt along the lines of its earlier design after the island was bought by Lt Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap in 1911. He and his clerk of works Farquar Macrae spent 20 years restoring the ruined castle to her former glory. The picturesque castle surrounded by stunning scenery is recognised as an iconic image of Scotland all over the world.