 Inverary Castle
When Sir Duncan Campbell moved from the old family base at Innis Chonnell Castle on Loch Awe during the early part of
the 15th century, he probably found little more than a fortified keep on the remote site
at Inveraray. By 1720 the 2nd Duke of Argyll had been persuaded to
allow Sir John Vanbrugh to present some ideas for a grand new castle,
but these never came to fruition. However, his brother and successor,
was more enthusiastic to develop the plans, not only for a new house,
but also to relocate and create a new town and surrounding landscape.
Vanbrugh's original plans were resurrected and revised by Roger Morris,
and the complex building programme commenced in 1746. Within twelve
years Inverary Castle had been largely completed but Sadly, the 3rd Duke did not
survive long enough to be able to move into his splendid new castle
and, in fact, work did not proceed again until 1770 on the succession
of the 5th Duke. Many of his own ideas were incorporated into the final
version of Inverary Castle, which was eventually completed in 1789. The result
was a unique architectural masterpiece, displaying fine examples of
Baroque, Palladian and Gothic styling in a wonderfully symmetrical
building that contrasted sharply with its wild and rugged environment.
Approximately 100 years later, the four conical spires that cap the
stone castellated drum towers were added by the 8th Duke but little
else has changed since that time.
All ancestral homes contain memorabilia associated
with each family member's occupancy and it is, therefore, not surprising
to find several references here to one of the most famous Clans of Scotland. The influential
Campbell family have been based at Inveraray Castle for six centuries,
but branches of Campbells have spread far and wide from their Scottish
roots. There is a genealogical chart on display and plenty of information
available to provide an opportunity for relatives to trace family members
to all parts of the world. Other elegant rooms contain regimental paraphernalia,
the usual family portraits, and many examples of fine furniture. In
stark contrast, a vast barrel-vaulted chamber has a collection of cooking
utensils and pots dating from the Victorian era that were once used
in this old kitchen.
Inverary Castle remains the beloved family home of the
current Duke of Argyll and, as such; the general public have limited
access to rooms in the castle. However, there is plenty of historical interest to explore
and, architecturally, it is an impressive 18th century building styled
after a traditional 'fairy tale' castle. Contained within 16 acres
of park and woodland, and overlooking Loch Fyne, Inveraray Castle makes
a stunning picture. |
