Stirling Castle is one of the largest and most impressive castles in Scotland and Western Europe, both historically and architecturally. Dates back to at least the 12th Century. The Castle is a national monument and is managed by the National Historical Agency. It is situated on top of a hill, built on a spike of volcanic rock, surrounded on three sides by steep cliffs which make it easily defensible. All this, combined with its strategic position, has made it an important fortification since its construction. Many of Scotland’s sovereigns have been crowned there, including Mary Stuart who was crowned there on 9 September 1543 in the royal chapel. The castle endured at least eight sieges, many of which occurred during the Scottish Independence Wars and the last occurred in 1746 when Carlo Edoardo Stuart tried in vain to take it. The facility is currently under the auspices of Historic Scotland.
Infamous deeds took place here, like the murder of the Earl of Douglas by James II.
It was also a childhood home of some of the most famous people in Scottish and British history, such as Mary Queen of Scots and James VI and I.
