Kildrummy Castle

Kildrummy Castle was built around 1250 under Uilleam, Mormaer of Mar, with the aim of securing the Mar dynasty's rule in northeast Scotland and controlling important trade routes. King Edward I of England visited here twice. In 1307, the family of Scottish King Robert I sought refuge in the castle, but an English siege led to its capture after a blacksmith set fire to the granary. All men of the castle, including three of the king's brothers, were executed, while his female relatives were taken prisoner. Another siege in 1335 by English supporters was repelled. In 1357, troops of King David II besieged the castle and defeated the rebellious Thomas, 9th Earl of Mar. In an effort to weaken the nobility, James I took possession of Kildrummy Castle in 1435, which was strengthened in the following decades.