Balvenie Castle, Dufftown in the heart of Morayshire, North East Scotland. Uk.
Balvenie Castle is a ruined castle near Dufftown in the Moray region of Scotland. Originally known as Mortlach, it was built in the 12th century by a branch of the powerful Comyn family and extended and altered in the 15th and 16th centuries. The Comyns built the original castle, known as Mortlach, in the 12th century. Part of this may survive in the present courtyard, but alterations were made to it over the centuries. In the 16th century Balvenie was extended by the addition of a domestic block (to the left of the entrance). The Atholl lodging was added to the right of this between 1547 and 1557, the windows having decorative stonework and small orioles at second floor level. There are heraldic panels on the walls. The ruinous west range probably dates from the 15th century and then contained a kitchen, brew house, and great chamber with the hall above. Only low walls of these buildings survive. In the courtyard is a deep well. Balvenie was originally a Comyn seat, followed by the Douglas’s, but in 1470 it was granted to John Stewart, later 1st Earl of Atholl. Mary, Queen of Scots stayed in 1562. The castle remained in Stewart hands until 1610 after which it had numerous owners until bought by Alexander Duff.
Size: 6064px × 4035px
Location: Dufftown, Banffshire Scotland. AB55 4DH United Kingdom.
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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