Am Fraoch Eilean facts for kids
| Meaning of name | the heather isle |
|---|---|
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| OS grid reference | NM6105760026 |
| Coordinates | 55°47′31″N 6°02′16″W / 55.791993°N 6.0378349°W |
| Physical geography | |
| Island group | Inner Hebrides |
| Highest elevation | 20 m (66 ft) |
| Administration | |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Country | Scotland |
| Council area | Argyll and Bute |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
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Am Fraoch Eilean is a small, uninhabited island in the Sound of Jura, located in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It is about 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) from Ardfin on the larger island of Jura. To its east lies Brosdale Island. The name "Am Fraoch Eilean" comes from Scottish Gaelic and means "the heather isle." In the past, it was known as "Ellan Charne." This tiny island is famous for the ruins of Claig Castle, an old fortress that once stood there.
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Discovering Am Fraoch Eilean
Am Fraoch Eilean is a very small island, not much bigger than a few football fields. It sits in the Sound of Jura, which is a stretch of water between the islands of Jura and the Scottish mainland. Even though no one lives on Am Fraoch Eilean today, it has an interesting history.
Where is Am Fraoch Eilean?
This little island is part of the Inner Hebrides, a group of islands off the west coast of Scotland. It's found within the area managed by Argyll and Bute council. Its highest point is only about 20 metres (66 feet) above sea level, making it quite low-lying. The island's location made it important in the past for controlling the waters of the Sound of Jura.
What's in a Name?
The name "Am Fraoch Eilean" tells us something about the island itself. "Fraoch" means heather in Scottish Gaelic. So, "the heather isle" suggests that the island was once covered in beautiful purple heather plants. Its older name, "Ellan Charne," is less common now.
Claig Castle: A Ruined Fortress
The most exciting feature on Am Fraoch Eilean is the remains of Claig Castle. This castle is now just a ruin, but it was once a strong and important building. It played a key role in the history of the region.
Who Built Claig Castle?
Claig Castle was likely built by the powerful Lords of the Isles. These were important chiefs of the Clan Donald (also known as Clan MacDonald). They ruled over many islands and parts of the Scottish mainland for centuries. The castle helped them control the sea routes through the Sound of Jura.
What Was Claig Castle Used For?
The castle was a stronghold, meaning it was a fortified place used for defence and control. It helped the Lords of the Isles keep an eye on ships passing through the sound. Some stories even say that Claig Castle was used as a prison. It might have held people who disagreed with the Lords of the Isles. Today, only parts of the castle walls remain, giving us a glimpse into its past.
See Also
- Jura, Scotland
- Sound of Jura
- Claig Castle
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