Introduction
Located in the picturesque town of St Andrews, Scotland, St Andrews Castle is a historical landmark that has stood for centuries. This magnificent castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland, attracting visitors from all over the world. In this blog post, we will explore the history and beauty of St Andrews Castle.
History
Construction and Early History
St Andrews Castle was built in the 13th century by Bishop Roger de Beaumont. The castle served as the residence of the Bishops of St Andrews until the 16th century. The castle was strategically located on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, which provided a natural defense against attackers. Over the years, the castle saw many important events, including royal visits and the imprisonment of prominent figures.
Scottish Reformation and Decline
In the 16th century, Scotland underwent a major religious upheaval, known as the Scottish Reformation. The castle was abandoned during this period and fell into ruin. In the 19th century, the castle was partially restored and opened to the public as a tourist attraction.
Architecture and Design
Overview
St Andrews Castle is a classic example of medieval architecture. The castle features a variety of different styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance. The castle’s most striking feature is its large curtain wall, which is over 100 feet high and 10 feet thick. The castle also has a number of towers and a dungeon.
Curtain Wall
The curtain wall is the most prominent feature of St Andrews Castle. It is a massive structure that surrounds the castle and was designed to protect it from attackers. The wall is made of sandstone and is over 100 feet high and 10 feet thick. It has a walkway at the top, which provided defenders with a vantage point to shoot arrows and throw rocks at attackers.
Towers
The castle has several towers that served different purposes. The most important tower was the bottle dungeon tower, which was used to imprison important figures. The tower is named after the small, dark, and cramped cell where prisoners were kept, known as the bottle dungeon.
Dungeon
St Andrews Castle also has a dungeon, which was used to hold prisoners. The dungeon was a dark and cramped cell, and it is said that prisoners were often left in it for weeks without food or water. The dungeon is now open to visitors, who can explore it and learn about the castle’s history.
Attractions
One of the most popular attractions at St Andrews Castle is the underground mine and counter-mine. These tunnels were used during sieges to undermine the castle walls. Visitors can explore these tunnels and learn about the castle’s history. Another popular attraction is the bottle dungeon, which is a small, dark, and cramped cell where prisoners were kept.
Visiting St Andrews Castle
St Andrews Castle is open to visitors all year round. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take guided tours of the castle. The castle also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including medieval fairs and re-enactments.
- The castle is open daily from 10am to 4pm (last entry 3.30pm)
- The admission prices are: Adult £6.00, Child £3.60, Concession £4.80, Historic Scotland Members/Explorer Pass holders free
- The castle has a visitor centre, a shop, toilets, a siege mine and counter-mine, and a bottle dungeon
Conclusion
St Andrews Castle is a fascinating historical landmark that offers a glimpse into Scotland’s rich history. Its beautiful architecture and design make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in medieval architecture. Whether you are a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, St Andrews Castle is definitely worth a visit.
