Cortachy Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cortachy Castle |
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| Cortachy, Angus, Scotland UK |
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Cortachy Castle
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 Cortachy Castle
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| Coordinates | 56°43′24″N 2°59′07″W / 56.723272°N 2.985296°W |
| Type | Mansion |
| Site information | |
| Open to the public |
Private |
| Site history | |
| Built | 15th century rebuilt 17th and 19th century |
| Materials | Stone |
Cortachy Castle is a beautiful old mansion house located in Cortachy, Angus, Scotland. It sits about four miles north of a town called Kirriemuir. This impressive building has a long history, with parts of it dating back to the 15th century.
Before the current castle, there was an even older structure on this spot. It was once owned by the powerful Earl of Strathearn family. In 1473, the castle became the property of the Clan Ogilvy, a well-known Scottish family. They made many big changes to the building in the 17th and 19th centuries.
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The Castle's Long History
Cortachy Castle has stood for centuries, watching over the Scottish landscape. Its story is filled with changes and updates that reflect different times.
Early Days and Owners
The very first building at Cortachy was likely built much earlier than the 15th century. It was an important place, as it belonged to the Earls of Strathearn. These earls were powerful figures in medieval Scotland.
Later, in 1473, the castle was taken over by the Ogilvy family. They have been connected to Cortachy ever since. Over the years, they transformed the castle to suit their needs and the styles of the time.
Changes and Rebuilding
In 1820, the castle got a fashionable makeover. Architects added decorative battlements, which are the notched walls often seen on old castles. This style was popular then and made buildings look more "romantic" and ancient. The work was done by a company called R & R Dickson.
Tragedy struck in 1883 when a fire damaged part of the castle. But the Ogilvy family quickly began repairs. The castle was extensively rebuilt over the next two years by architects Kinnear & Peddie, making it strong and beautiful once more.
Cortachy Castle Today
Today, Cortachy Castle is recognized as a "Category B listed building." This means it's an important historical building that needs to be protected. The beautiful gardens and designed landscapes around the castle are also special. They are included in the Inventory of Gardens and Designed Landscapes in Scotland, which lists important historical gardens.
The Castle's Ghostly Tale
Like many old castles, Cortachy Castle has its own ghost story! People say it's haunted by the spirit of a drummer. This ghost is known as the Drummer of Cortachy. Legend says that when the sound of his drums is heard, it means someone from the Ogilvy family is about to pass away. It's a spooky tale that adds to the castle's mystery!
