Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland by EuropeTrotter

Long exposure
Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other. It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands.

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Kingdom of the Fall by michaelglascock

Château de Najac, XIIe, XIIIe siècle
Under the reign of: • Louis VI (1108-1137).

Key dates: • By 1180 the castle belongs to the Plantagenets.

• 1196: It returns to the Count of Toulouse Raymond VI.

• 1214: Simon de Montfort seizes Najac.

• 1249: Death of Count Raymond VII of Toulouse. His lands passed to his son Alphonse of Poitiers, brother of King Louis IX.

• 1271: Death of Alphonse de Poitiers. Midi annexed to the royal domain.

• 1572: The Huguenots seized Najac and devastate the castle.

• 1590: It is taken by the troops of Henry IV

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Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland by EuropeTrotter

Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other. It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands. When you first set eyes on it, it is easy to understand why so many people flock to its stout doors year after year. Strategically located on its own little island, overlooking the Isle of Skye, at the point where three great sea-lochs meet, and surrounded by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintail, Eilean Donan’s setting is truly breathtaking.

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