Eilean Donan

Eilean Donan is a small island in Loch Duich in the western Highlands of Scotland.

On this island stands the famous Eilean Donan Castle. The castle was first built in 1220 by Alexander II of Scotland as a bulwark of defense against Viking raids, and is said to have been one of Robert Bruce's refuges during his escape from English soldiers. From the end of the 13th century it became the home of the Mackenzie clan of Kintail (later the Earls of Seaforth). From 1511 the MacRae Clan, as protectors of the Mackenzies, became constables of the castle.

In 1719 the castle was occupied by Spanish troops intent on giving birth to a new Jacobite revolt. However, the castle was reconquered and demolished by the shelling of three Royal Navy frigates between 10 and 13 May 1719. Subsequently, the Spanish troops occupying the castle were defeated about a month later in the battle of Glen Shiel.

The castle was left in ruins for almost two centuries and then was rebuilt and restored between 1912 and 1932 by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap who had acquired it as a descendant of the MacRae clan that had once owned it. Among the most important works dating back to this period is the construction of an arched bridge to allow easier access to the fortress.

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