Auldearn Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Auldearn Castle |
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| Auldearn, Highland, Scotland | |
 Auldearn Castle
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| Coordinates | 57°34′39″N 3°48′44″W / 57.5776110°N 3.8123252°W |
| Site history | |
| Built | 12th century |
Auldearn Castle was an old castle located near the village of Auldearn. This village is in the Highland area of Scotland. Castles like Auldearn were important buildings in the past.
What was Auldearn Castle?
Auldearn Castle was built a long time ago, in the late 1100s. It was a type of castle called a "motte-and-bailey." This design was very common for early castles.
Building a Castle
A "motte-and-bailey" castle had two main parts. The "motte" was a large earth mound, often with a wooden tower on top. The "bailey" was a fenced or walled area at the bottom of the mound. This area held buildings like homes and stables. Auldearn Castle was made from earth and timber, which means wood. It was built when William the Lion was the King of Scotland.
Changing Hands
In 1187, the castle changed owners during a time of unrest. Gillecolm de Madderty, who was like the castle's manager or governor, handed it over. It was given to Donald Meic Uilleim during a revolt in an area called Moray. Auldearn Castle was known as a "royal castle." This meant it belonged to the King or Queen of Scotland. The Scottish Crown used it for important royal business.
A Promise of Loyalty
A significant event happened at Auldearn Castle in 1308. William, Earl of Ross, made a special promise there. He swore "fealty" to King Robert the Bruce. Fealty means a promise of loyalty and support. Robert the Bruce was a famous Scottish king. He is known for leading Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
