Castle in Scotland Discovered, Thought to Be Home of Kings

Artists impression of Finlaggan Castle, Isle of Islay, Scotland

September

/ 2025

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Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a forgotten Scottish castle that may have housed kings who ruled vast territories across western Scotland more than 700 years ago. The remarkable discovery at Finlaggan on the Isle of Islay has revealed a previously unknown royal stronghold from the 12th and 13th centuries, predating the famous Lords of the Isles by several centuries.

The discovery comes after nearly three decades of analysis following archaeological excavations conducted from 1989 to 1998, reported The Independent. Dr. David Caldwell, who led the research project, has now published the comprehensive findings in "The Archaeology of Finlaggan, Islay" through the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland. The site reveals layers of occupation spanning millennia, from prehistoric times through the medieval period to post-medieval settlements.

A Royal Fortress Spanning Two Islands

The castle occupied a unique position across two small islands in Loch Finlaggan, creating an extraordinary defensive and ceremonial complex. Archaeological evidence reveals that one island contained a massive rectangular stone tower measuring approximately 19 by 19 meters, comparable to the great keeps found in English castles like Carlisle, Bamburgh, and Lancaster. This imposing structure served as both living quarters and a fortress for the resident king or lord.

The second island housed extensive courtyards containing kitchens, workshops, houses, and a great hall where medieval feasting took place. A chapel with its own burial ground completed the complex, features typically found only at royal residences. The construction of such large rectangular stone towers was essentially exclusive to great Anglo-French lords and kings in Britain and Ireland, making this castle a powerful political statement of wealth and royal connections.

Archaeological remains at Finlaggan showing the stone foundations of the medieval castle. (Dr David Caldwell)

The Lost Kingdom of the Lords of the Isles

The castle's discovery provides crucial archaeological evidence for understanding the power base that would later become the seat of the MacDonald Lords of the Isles. These rulers controlled a vast maritime kingdom spanning the Western Isles, Argyll, and parts of the northwest Highlands from around 1300 to 1500 AD. They called themselves "Ri Innse Gall" (King of the Isles) in Gaelic and treated with English and Scottish kings as equals.

The Lords of the Isles operated what was essentially a quasi-independent state that seriously challenged the Stewart dynasty for control of much of Scotland. Archaeological evidence from Finlaggan confirms the site's role as the ceremonial, administrative, and judicial center of this medieval kingdom. Excavations revealed casket mounts and keys that protected valuable documents, remains of a council house where the Council of the Isles met, and evidence of elaborate ceremonial events.

Layers of Ancient History

The research reveals that Finlaggan's importance as a center of power stretches back far beyond the medieval period. Evidence suggests the site may have been used as a prehistoric settlement and potentially served as a Viking-age assembly site or "Thing." The 12th and 13th-century castle represents just one phase in the site's long history of occupation.

Aerial view of Finlaggan showing the islands where the medieval castle once stood. (Open Virtual Worlds at University of St Andrews)

The earlier castle may have been dismantled due to structural issues or enemy action before the later palace was constructed in the 14th century, when the MacDonalds rose to the height of their power. Dr. Caldwell noted:

"I am privileged to have led a skilled and dedicated team of specialists and volunteers on such an important project on a key place of national significance."

Significance for Scottish Medieval History

This discovery significantly enhances understanding of Scottish medieval history, demonstrating that the grandeur of the Lords of the Isles was far greater than previously thought. The castle's sophisticated design and royal features show it truly rivaled the power bases of much larger European kingdoms. The site's continuous occupation from prehistoric times through the medieval period illustrates the strategic importance of this location in western Scotland's political landscape.

The comprehensive analysis published in "The Archaeology of Finlaggan, Islay" provides a foundation for future research into this remarkable site. Dr. Helen Spencer, head of research at the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, emphasized the importance of sharing this knowledge with the public, noting that such discoveries help illuminate Scotland's rich archaeological heritage.

Top image: A visualization showing the previously unknown castle at Finlaggan spanning two islands in Loch Finlaggan, by experienced professional historical illustrator, David Simon. Source: David Simon/The Independent

By Gary Manners