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A castle that had been long forgotten was recently unearthed on a picturesque Hebridean island, revealing a piece of history that dates back over 700 years. Archaeologists working on the Isle of Islay believe that the castle, located on two small islands in a loch at Finlaggan, was once the grand residence of kings who ruled over vast territories in western Scotland. These rulers, descendants of the MacDonald clan chiefs, were famously known as the Lords of the Isles.
The castle at Finlaggan served as a seat of power for the MacDonald chiefs, enabling them to exert control over the Hebrides, Argyll, and parts of the north west Highlands. Over the course of nearly 30 years, archaeologists meticulously studied the site to shed light on its significance within the kingdom of the Lords of the Isles and its early history. The remains of the castle, dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries, exhibit features typical of fortified strongholds from that era, such as a rectangular stone tower resembling a keep.
Experts suggest that the construction of the castle at Finlaggan was a display of the lords’ power and wealth, akin to the rectangular towers built by Anglo-French rulers in medieval Britain and Ireland. The castle may have met its demise due to structural issues or damage caused by enemy attacks, leading to the eventual construction of a palace on the same site for the Lord of the Isles. The Lords of the Isles, who saw themselves as equals to Scottish and English royalty, conducted military raids in mainland Scotland, including notable attacks on Urquhart Castle by Loch Ness.
A new publication by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, authored by Dr. David Caldwell, presents findings from decades of research into Finlaggan. Dr. Caldwell and his team of specialists and volunteers have painstakingly pieced together the history of the castle, offering a glimpse into the past that not only fascinates but also encourages further exploration and study. The Society’s commitment to sharing historical knowledge with a broader audience underscores the importance of uncovering and preserving such sites for future generations to appreciate and learn from
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