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Scotland’s 8 greatest castles – Lonely Planet
Scotland’s turbulent historical past of battles within the glens has bequeathed the nation a powerful choice of castles, with the added bonus of its rugged panorama.
Whether or not you roam the fortresses overlooking Edinburgh and Stirling or search out a romantic break amid the huge lochs and brooding mountains of the Scottish Highlands, inspiring historic adventures await.
Discover royal historical past at Edinburgh Citadel
Perched atop the volcanic plug of Citadel Rock, the Scottish capital’s crowning glory is a powerful begin to a tour of the most effective castles in Scotland. The historical past of Britain’s most besieged place goes again a thousand years, and the castle’s Georgian barracks proudly overlook the Princes Road Gardens that separate Edinburgh’s Previous and New Cities.
Highlights embrace the firing of the One o’Clock Gun, a practice relationship to 1861, in addition to James IV’s wooden-beamed Nice Corridor and the Sixteenth-century Royal Palace. Within the latter, don’t miss the chamber the place Mary, Queen of Scots, gave beginning to James VI, the primary monarch of each Scotland and England.
Admire the lyrical setting of Eilean Donan Citadel
Eilean Donan usually serves as a pin-up for the storybook romance of the Highlands, with its splendid location on a rocky islet on the assembly of three mountain-rimmed lochs. You’ll see its reconstructed medieval towers and turrets from the principle highway west to Skye, nevertheless it’s value crossing the stone bridge to one of many best castles in Scotland.
Featured in movies such because the James Bond flick The World Is Not Sufficient, it stood robust from the thirteenth century till 1719, when English men-of-war bombarded its 5m-thick (16ft) partitions whereas besieging Spanish troops in the course of the Jacobite uprisings. Inside, you may think about your self a Jacobite plotter on the battlements, peek by way of spy holes, maintain a cannonball and wield a claymore – the hefty sword brandished by William Wallace in Braveheart.
Embark on a family-friendly historic journey at Stirling Citadel
The Jacobite uprisings sought to revive the Home of Stuart to the British throne, and you’ll comply with these monarchs to their imposing fortress atop riverside Citadel Hill. “He who holds Stirling, holds Scotland,” goes the outdated saying – and the castle has witnessed some 20 sieges and battles.
The 18th-century pockmarks left by Bonnie Prince Charlie’s cannons are a small a part of the constructing’s wealthy historical past, which you’ll uncover on guided excursions of James V’s Renaissance-style Royal Palace, the walled Queen Anne Gardens, the stone-floored Nice Kitchens and extra. Galleries show artifacts together with the Stirling Heads, Sixteenth-century oak medallions carved with royal portraits, and kids love listening to historic yarns from workers in frilly interval costumes.
Dunnottar Citadel is one for drama queens (and kings)
This windblown relic atop the 49m-high (160ft) cliffs of a headland on the North Beach is unbeatable for sheer drama. A customer middle is deliberate, however for now, the medieval fortification is a spot to soak up the romance of its scenic setting and lengthy historical past, maybe whereas approaching alongside the Aberdeenshire Coastal Path from close by Stonehaven.
William Wallace, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Charles II all handed by way of, however Dunnotar’s proudest second was serving to a small garrison safeguard the Scottish crown jewels (now on show at Edinburgh Citadel) from Oliver Cromwell’s forces.
Discover the fairy-tale chateau of Dunrobin Citadel
Like a wing of the Palace of Versailles transported to the Northern Highlands, the conical spires of this 189-room chateau overlook its formal gardens and the Moray Firth. The standard seat of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, its stately rooms and corridors deliver Downton Abbey to thoughts, with their stag heads, gilt-framed portraits and family-crest-emblazoned fire.
There’s a tearoom, a museum, falconry shows and gardens laid out by Sir Charles Barry, architect of London’s Homes of Parliament. Open between April and October, the previous naval hospital and boys’ boarding college has seven centuries of historical past, making it one of many UK’s longest repeatedly inhabited homes.
Channel the Bard at Cawdor Citadel
One for actors who superstitiously check with Macbeth as “the Scottish play,” this looming pile options in Shakespeare’s tragedy, when the protagonist fulfills the witches’ prophecy that he’ll turn into Thane of Cawdor.
The play’s Eleventh-century occasions predate the castle by just a few centuries, however the fairy-tale rooms and gardens nonetheless provide many Scottish legends. Discover the walled backyard and go to the medieval tower constructed round a fortunate holly tree, which protected Cawdor by way of the Jacobite uprisings.
Shakespearean completists ought to take a look at one other wonderful Highlands edifice, Glamis Castle, the setting for a lot of Macbeth (and the late Queen Mom’s childhood dwelling).
Tour Blair Citadel, the final phrase in Scots Baronial structure
You’ll be able to tour 30 rooms of this whitewashed Scots Baronial masterpiece within the southern foothills of the Cairngorms, the place the Atholl household left medieval, Georgian and Victorian imprints. Step into the wood-paneled entrance corridor, adorned with muskets used on the Battle of Culloden, and wander the hushed rooms of furnishings, china and lace, collected by 19 generations of adventurers, Jacobites and royalists.
Keep in a cottage or shepherd’s hut to understand the landscaped grounds, the place peacocks and purple squirrels inhabit the three.6 hectare (9 acre) walled backyard, woodland grove, deer park and sculpture path. The property is dwelling to each sustainability schemes and Europe’s final remaining personal military, the Atholl Highlanders, which guarded Queen Victoria throughout her keep at the castle.
For a Cairngorms fort crawl, gallop northeast to Seventeenth-century Braemar Castle (reopening after renovations in July 2023) and the royal-owned Balmoral Castle, the place the ballroom and gardens open to the general public between April and August.
See the towers and turrets of Inveraray Citadel
Loch Fyne within the Western Highlands is known for each oysters and this pearl of a Scottish ancestral seat, its tubular towers topped with witch’s-hat spires.
Behind the arched home windows in its granite-gray facade, the ornate interiors embrace the 18th-century drawing room’s painted ceiling and French Beauvais tapestries, the opulent State Eating Room and the Armoury Corridor with some 1300 weapons. Head “beneath stairs” to the tearoom and outdated kitchen, discover the grounds on a 1.5-mile woodland stroll and in a single day in one of many property’s cottages.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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