I added a picture of Inveraray Castle to the blog heading. Even in autumn, the castle is beautiful, isn't it?
It is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their children. The castle was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh for the great second duke in 1720. Construction began in 1746. The fifth duke saw the castle's completion in 1789. The castellated towers were part of the original building but it was considered less impressive than the original castle once located on the same site--more a mansion than a castle--so the conical towers were added later to give it a more "castle-like" appearance.
As I mentioned, an original castle once stood on the same site, built by the Campbell Earls of Argyll during the 15th century. It was eventually destroyed by fire during the Civil War of 1644 by the Marquis of Montrose.
My novels are partially set in this beautiful place. There's a lot more to tell you about it but I thought you might enjoy a picture tour instead.
It is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Argyll and their children. The castle was designed by Sir John Vanbrugh for the great second duke in 1720. Construction began in 1746. The fifth duke saw the castle's completion in 1789. The castellated towers were part of the original building but it was considered less impressive than the original castle once located on the same site--more a mansion than a castle--so the conical towers were added later to give it a more "castle-like" appearance.
As I mentioned, an original castle once stood on the same site, built by the Campbell Earls of Argyll during the 15th century. It was eventually destroyed by fire during the Civil War of 1644 by the Marquis of Montrose.
My novels are partially set in this beautiful place. There's a lot more to tell you about it but I thought you might enjoy a picture tour instead.
Here is the entire view of the picture at the top. The water you see? It's Loch Fyne.
This is Armoury Hall. It is located centrally, in the Great Hall. It's ceiling soars to 21 meters (that's over 68 feet high to we metrically-challenged Americans). It's the highest ceiling in Scotland. In case you wondered, this spandrel of muskets on the wall and surrounded by Lochaber axes is one of several located in this room.
This is the Tapestry Drawing Room. It is decorated in the Parisian style more popular during the 18th century. The painting over the fireplace is of Lady Charlotte Campbell as "Aurora" painted by
John Hoppner.
John Hoppner.
Here is another view of the same room.
This is the State Dining Room. The colors in it usually amaze visitors. Have you seen Downton Abbey? They pay a visit to Inveraray Castle (though it's called by another name) in the final episode of the third season.
The dining table dates from around 1800. The Waterford chandelier is the largest of three in the castle. The other two are in the Tapestry Drawing Room.
The dining table dates from around 1800. The Waterford chandelier is the largest of three in the castle. The other two are in the Tapestry Drawing Room.