Long-Lost Royal Stronghold Revealed on Islay Isle
A previously overlooked fortress unearched on a Scottish location could have sheltered rulers who controlled large territories of the Scottish west.
Historians suggest the building, constructed spanning two small islands within a lake at this historic site, was used by nobility over 700 years ago.
Their descendants included MacDonald clan chiefs who earned the title of the Island Sovereigns.
These lords turned this location into a center of power from which they oversaw the Hebrides, Argyll and sections of the north west Highlands.
Experts have invested around 30 years researching Finlaggan to gain a fuller knowledge of its role in the domain of the clan leaders, as well as the location’s ancient past.
Remains of a castle were uncovered and placed in the 12th and 13th centuries, preceding the lords became dominant.
The fort included a rectangular keep like those built within well-defended strongholds in English border towns, coastal forts and English castles.
The structure contained living quarters, central yards, kitchens, a main hall where gatherings were held and a chapel with an nearby graveyard.
Experts stated that European monarchs in these regions were known for building stone structures, and they proposed that this castle’s was designed as a symbol of influence and prosperity.
The castle was likely torn down because it was unstable or damaged during raids.
A residence was later constructed on the exact spot for the regional ruler.
The Lords of the Isles acted as sovereigns and believed they were peers of Scottish and English royalty.
They conducted attacks in the Scottish mainland and struck sites such as Urquhart Castle on the banks of a famous lake.
In a recent publication, authors declared that this location was the rulers' central center of power.
The volume has been published by a historical institute.
A project director headed a group of specialists and assistants in revealing new insights about this location.
"The analysis of all the information that was collected has been a significant part of my work since the 1990s, and I trust I have not only offered an narrative of interest but also a starting point for others to conduct more exploration in the future."
Another expert remarked that the group's purpose was to communicate information of the history as widely as feasible.
