Eilean Donnan Castle
- Photograph
- 15 by 10 inches
- unframed
-
£25.00
- Arriving at this magical place at 2am after a six hour drive paled into insignificance,
when after driving through some of the most stunning massive scenery in Europe,
I came across this Castle.
Eilean Donan Castle is dramatically situated on a small isle at the meeting point of three sea lochs - Loch Long, Loch Duich and Loch Alsh.
The original castle was built in 1220 for Alexander II as a defence against the Vikings. Information boards displayed at the castle state that:
The missionary work of Abbot Donan (who was reputedly a contemporary of famous Saint Columba) took him from SW Scotland through Ayrshire northwards and into Sutherland. Presumably he then passed westwards for churches bearing his name exist in Loch Carron, Loch Broom, Kildonan in Skye and at Eilean Donan where a small oratory or cell stood. He then moved to a monastic foundation on Eigg where while celebrating the Holy Eucharist on Sunday 17 April 618 the monastery was raided by a band of marauders and Abbot Donan together with 52 of his companions were beheaded.
By the late 13th century it had become a stronghold of the Mackenzies of Kintail (later the Earls of Seaforth).
In 1511, the MacRaes, as protectors of the MacKenzies, became the hereditary Constables of the Castle.
Anyone who has the chance to explore the Scottish Highlands, should take it.
This place is a true total unspoilt Gem.
The drive to this location is not for the faint hearted,