Dundee Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dundee Castle |
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 Dundee Castle
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| Coordinates | 56°27′40″N 2°58′05″W / 56.4610°N 2.9680°W |
Dundee Castle was an important castle located in Dundee, Scotland. It played a big role in the history of Scotland, especially during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Sadly, this castle no longer stands today. It was completely destroyed by Robert the Bruce in 1313.
Dundee Castle: A Scottish Stronghold
Dundee Castle was a strong fortress in the town of Dundee. The town itself became a royal burgh (a special type of town with royal rights) in the 1200s. This happened thanks to King William the Lion of Scotland. The castle was built to protect the town and its people.
Early Conflicts and English Control
In 1296, a major conflict began between Scotland and England. This was known as the Wars of Scottish Independence. During this time, Dundee Castle was handed over to the English forces.
However, the Scots fought back. In 1297, a famous Scottish leader named William Wallace led a siege against Dundee Castle. A siege is when an army surrounds a castle and tries to capture it. Wallace's forces were successful, and the English soldiers inside the castle surrendered. This happened just before the important Battle of Stirling Bridge, where Wallace won a big victory.
Repeated Captures and Destruction
The castle's story didn't end there. It was captured by the English again several times. This happened in 1300, 1303, and 1310. King Edward I of England, who was known as "Longshanks," even visited Dundee Castle. He came in 1300 and again in 1303. During his visits, he made sure the castle was repaired and made stronger.
But the Scots were determined to win their freedom. In 1312 or 1313, Edward de Brus, who was Robert the Bruce's brother, attacked the castle. At that time, it was held by a man named William de Montfichet. Edward de Brus successfully captured Dundee Castle. To make sure the English could not use it again, he ordered its complete destruction. This was a common tactic during the Wars of Independence. Many Scottish castles were destroyed to prevent them from being used by the enemy.
Today, the site where Dundee Castle once stood is home to St. Paul's Cathedral.
