Dunyvaig Castle - Dun Naomhaigh

Dunyvaig Castle - Dùn Naomhaig is located on the south side of Islay, Argyll, Scotland (Scottish Gaelic: Ìle, Earra-Ghàidheal, Alba). The remains of the 12th - 13th century castle is on a rocky headland by the shore of Lagavulin (Lag a' Mhuilinn) Bay, 2.5 miles (4 km) from Port Ellen (Port Ìlein). Built on top of a previous ancient fort, the ruins of the castle stand along with 16th century additions. Once a stronghold of the Lord of the Isles, chiefs of Clan Donald, the castle was held by the chiefs of the Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg.  After being forfeited to the crown in 1493, the castle was fought over between the MacDonalds and rival clans. The Campbell’s of Cawdor eventually took up residence. Upon relocating to Islay House, the castle’s final occupant, Sir Hugh Campbell, had it demolished in 1677. A history of the castle is given in this article by Islay Hetitage - Dualchas ÌLe about Dunyvaig Castle - Dùn Naomhaig.

Link and Image: Islay Hetitage - Dualchas ÌLe. Dunyvaig Castle artist impression courtesy of Islay Hetitage - Dualchas ÌLe.