Eilean Donan Castle
Although the island of Eilean Donan has been a fortified site for at least 800 years, the present building largely dates from the early 20th century. Today's castle, which rose from the ruins of its predecessor, was re-built between 1912 and 1932 by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap The MacRae clan came to Kintail from the Beauly Firth where they had given protection to the Clan Fraser. Here they soon became 'bodyguards' to the MacKenzie chiefs. Despite disputes, the MacKenzies held Eilean Donan almost constantly until the 16th century. 1511 As protectors of the MacKenzies, the MacRaes first became Constables of the Castle in 1511 with considerable control over the surrounding area. 1539 A feud between the MacKenzies and the McLeods of Dunvegan, over the disputed claims of Donald Gorm MacDonald to the title of Lord of the Isles, came to head when he attacked the Castle with 50 galleys. He was famously shot and killed by Duncan MacRae with a single arrow. 1715 The Castle was garrisoned by Government troops but later retaken by the Jacobites before the Battle of Sheriffmuir. Before the Battle 1719 The Castle was attacked by Government warships and abandoned in ruins after the bombardment. 1911 Bought by John MacRae-Gilstrap. 1912 Project began to restore the Castle. 1932 Completed after 20 years of reconstruction. Bridge to the island also finished. 1983 The Conchra Charitable Trust was formed by the MacRae family to care for the Castle. This century it has become one of Scotland most photographed castles thanks to its picturesque setting on an islet in Loch Duich by the main road to Kyle of Lochalsh (gateway to the Isle of Skye). In 1984 it featured in the movie Highlander with Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery. In the Billeting Room there are 3 b/w photographs taken of the set during filming and these can be bought in the visitor centre. Other movies have featured the castle since it is so picturesque.
Size: 4968px × 4916px
Photo credit: © David Gowans / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: alsh, building, duich, highlands, hills, inverness-shire, isles, kyle, loch, places, road, scotland, scottish, sealoch, silhouetted, sunset, travel
