Gylen Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gylen Castle |
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Location | Kerrera, Scotland |
Original use | castle |
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Gylen Castle is an old, ruined castle located on the island of Kerrera in Argyll and Bute, Scotland. It sits on a rocky point, looking out over the Firth of Lorne (a sea channel). This castle is a special historical site. It was officially protected as a scheduled monument in 1931.
The Story of Gylen Castle
Gylen Castle was built a long time ago, in 1582. It was constructed by the Clan MacDougall, a powerful Scottish family. The castle was a type of building called a tower house.
Life at the Castle
Gylen Castle was only lived in for a short time. It served as a strong home for the MacDougall family. Life there would have been simple but safe, thanks to its strong walls.
The Castle Under Attack
In 1647, the castle faced a big challenge. It was attacked by a group called the Covenanters. These were people who supported a certain type of church in Scotland. Their army was led by General Leslie.
The Covenanters surrounded the castle, which is called a siege. After the siege, they burned Gylen Castle. This happened during a period known as the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. These wars were a series of conflicts across Scotland, England, and Ireland.
Saving Gylen Castle
For many years, Gylen Castle remained a ruin. But in May 2006, a big project began to save it. Historic Scotland, an organization that protects historical places, gave £300,000 for the work.
Members of the Clan MacDougall from all over the world also helped. They raised another £200,000. Thanks to these efforts, the castle was carefully repaired and made safe. This work helps to preserve Gylen Castle for future generations to visit and learn from.