Scottish Castles - Huntingtower

Scottish Castles - Huntingtower Castle

Huntingtower Castle, located near the town of Perth in Scotland, is a particularly interesting place with a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. Originally known as 'House of Ruthven', the castle served for many years as the seat of the powerful Ruthven family, one of the most important clans in the region. Their history is intertwined with Scotland's turbulent past.

Castle architecture

The castle is notable for its unusual layout. It consists of two tower houses that were once separated by several metres. Originally the towers were connected by a wooden bridge. The older eastern tower was built around 1460 and was initially a gatehouse, but it was soon converted into a tower house. The western tower was added at the end of the 15th century, and the space between them was not infilled until the 17th century, giving the castle its present appearance.

Important historical events

Huntingtower played a significant role in Scottish history. In 1565 it was visited by Mary Stuart during her honeymoon with Lord Darnley. The castle was also witness to dramatic events such as the 'Ruthven Raid' in 1582, when William Ruthven, 1st Earl of Gowrie, abducted the young King James VI. The king was held here for almost a year, which had a huge impact on the future of the Ruthven family. After the family's fall following the Gowrie conspiracy in 1600, their estates were confiscated and the castle was renamed Huntingtower to distance it from the past.

Interesting facts and legends

The castle holds many curiosities. One of the most valuable interior features is the preserved wall paintings, which depict plant and animal motifs as well as biblical scenes. These are among the oldest works of this kind in Scotland.

The site is also associated with a romantic yet dramatic legend about the daughter of the 1st Earl of Gowrie, Dorothea. According to the tale, the young woman is said to have jumped from one tower to the other to avoid being caught by her mother during a secret meeting with her lover. The girl's ghost, known as 'Lady Greensleeves', is said to still appear in the castle, adding an aura of mystery to the place.

The castle today

Today Huntingtower is open to visitors, who can explore its fascinating history and admire its well-preserved interiors. It is also a popular wedding venue – the castle's romantic setting attracts couples from around the world.

Huntingtower is not only a historic site but also a witness to Scotland's turbulent past. Full of legends, mysteries and historical details, it is a place well worth visiting.