Stirling Castle was first mentioned around 1110, and many royal dramas unfolded here. Until the Union of the Crowns in 1603, almost every Scottish monarch had either lived in the castle, or been crowned or died here.
The castle’s long, turbulent history features:
- William Wallace
- Robert the Bruce
- Mary Queen of Scots
- Bonnie Prince Charlie
Stirling Castle is a complex monument of diverse buildings and spaces added over the centuries.
In this shot we can see the William Wallace Monument in the distance. We would travel there after we explored The Church of the Holy Rude.
From high on a volcanic outcrop, the castle guarded the lowest crossing point of the River Forth for centuries. Today it remains a great symbol of Scottish independence and national pride.
At the castle’s heart is the Inner Close, a square formed of the principal buildings for royal occupation.
Our tour guide, Joanie! She was excellent and kept us entertained and laughing.
A statute of Robert the Bruce, designed by George Cruikshank and sculpted by Andrew Currie in 1876-77. The carved stone statue stands on a square stone pedestal and depicts the king as a tall chain mailed figure resting his hand on the pommel of his sword. At the feet and to the rear of the king is his shield and axe.
From the castle we went down hill to the Church of the Holy Rude to take a look inside.
There is so much history and conflict associated with this castle and area. Here is a link to more information.
The Happy Wonderer ~ ellen b. 
I’m loving all the reminders of places we have visited. Stirling is an amazing castle and what wonderful views in the sunlight. B x
…all of this was built for the long haul!
This must have been a wonderful trip! So beautiful! Thanks for sharing it. I would love to travel to Scotland. Such history in these old places.
I remember visiting Stirling Castle when on a road trip with my dear father many years ago. There are many beautiful places there and the history of Scotland is very interesting.
Your photos are always a pleasure to see. Thank you for sharing them.
More great pictures. Always amazing how old things are over there!!!
Fabulous Ellen! Fantastic photos that brought back a lot of great memories. I was there at the age of 21 and remember walking up to that gate with my two friends in your second photo. I will be coming back to look again I am certain.
Those views from on high are just stunning. And it looks like you had some dramatic skies for your visit.
The history and the wonderful old castle just wonderful to read about, you are such a good guide. From books and TV shows, somehow I always seem to picture Scotland as being wild and stormy and gray … I guess I knew that couldn’t always be true and your pictures certainly prove it … looks like wonderful weather. S
Stirling Castle looks like a fun and fascinating place to visit. Wonderful views, all so green and lush.
What a lovely trip you had! I just love seeing all that European architecture from throughout the ages.
Wonderful photos! Scottish Castles are very unique!