9 Abandoned Castles That Are Haunting Shells Of Their Former Glory

Jim

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posted on 5 years ago — updated on 1 second ago

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One of the greatest things about ancient architecture is how it allows us to step directly into history. Our planet is rich with structures that are a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. Perhaps the best example of this are abandoned castles that have miraculously withstood centuries of wear and devastation.

Castle Stalker In Scotland, U.K

It might look dainty compared to other castles, but Castle Stalker is still a sight to behold.

Located on a tiny island off the west coast of Scotland, Castle Stalker is suffused with the tumultuous history of Scotland. According to the estate’s website, the castle may have originally belonged to the aristocratic MacDougall family which ruled as the lords of the area in 1320.

But after the MacDougalls were defeated by the King of Scots, Robert the Bruce, they lost their title and their lordship was passed to another family, the Stewarts. Eventually, the entirety of the MacDougalls’ land was surrendered to the Stewarts as well, including the land on which Castle Stalker now stands.

Much of the castle’s architecture was believed to have been built by Sir John Stewart. During their reign, the Stewarts were plagued with scandals of illegitimate offspring and burdened by a bloody feud with the MacDougalls. The Stewarts and MacDougalls later battled it out once and for all in 1468 on the mainland area opposite of the castle’s island.

Today, Castle Stalker is a privately-owned estate, opened to a limited number of tourists during certain times of the year. The castle is most famously known as one of the locations featured in the 1975 cult comedy, Monty Python and the Holy Grail.