Castle Stuart - Clan Stewart History
Castle Stuart
Location: Near Inverness, Highlands, Scotland
Castle Stuart, overlooking the Moray Firth near Inverness, is closely associated with Clan Stewart,
one of the most prominent and historically influential clans in Scotland. The Stewarts rose to royalty in the late 14th century,
eventually producing a line of monarchs who ruled both Scotland and England for centuries.
The castle was originally built in the early 17th century by James Stewart, 1st Earl of Moray, the half-brother of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Designed as a tower house with Renaissance elements, Castle Stuart reflected the growing sophistication and political clout of the Stewarts in Highland society.
Clan Stewart was not a single unified group, but rather a royal dynasty with numerous branches, including the Stewarts of Appin, Atholl, and Bute.
While some branches held Highland lands and supported the Jacobite cause, others remained aligned with the ruling establishment.
Their tartans, particularly the Royal Stewart, are among the most recognized in the world.
Castle Stuart fell into ruin for centuries but was magnificently restored in the 20th century. Today, it operates as a luxury hotel and golf destination,
while continuing to symbolize the grandeur and resilience of the Stewart legacy.
With ties to royalty, rebellion, and renaissance, Castle Stuart and Clan Stewart remain enduring icons in the story of Scotland.