Kildonan Castle facts for kids
Kildonan Castle is an old castle found in the small village of Kildonan. This village is on the southern coast of the beautiful Isle of Arran in Scotland. The castle gets its name from a very old resident, Saint Donan, who some say is buried on the island.
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Kildonan Castle: A Historic Scottish Stronghold
When Was Kildonan Castle Built?
This ancient castle was built way back in the 13th century. That's over 700 years ago! It was constructed by a powerful group known as the MacDonalds. They were also called the Lords of the Isles, which meant they were very important rulers of many islands off Scotland's west coast.
Why Was Kildonan Castle Built Here?
Kildonan Castle stands proudly on high cliffs. From its strong walls, you can see the small island of Pladda and the entrance to the Firth of Clyde. The Firth of Clyde is like a large sea inlet or bay. The castle was built in this important spot to help protect the area from enemies. It was designed to stop anyone trying to attack Scotland by sailing through the Firth.
Who Owned Kildonan Castle?
For a time, Kildonan Castle was used as a special hunting lodge by the Kings of Scotland. A hunting lodge is a place where royalty or important people would stay when they went hunting. One of these kings was Robert III. At that time, the entire Isle of Arran belonged to the Scottish crown, meaning it was owned by the king.
Later, in the year 1544, the castle changed hands. It became the property of the Earls of Arran. An Earl is a noble title, similar to a duke or a count. The Earls of Arran were powerful landowners in Scotland.
