Dun Ringill, Iron Age fort near Loch Slapin, Scotland.
Dun Ringill is an Iron Age stone structure on the coast of Loch Slapin in the Scottish Highlands. The building features thick stone walls that once enclosed a main dwelling with a central courtyard and interior spaces designed for shelter and defense.
The structure originated in the Iron Age around the first century, when such stone forts were common in northern Britain. It later became a residence for Clan MacKinnon and served as a significant center in the regional history of the Isle of Skye.
The name Dun Ringill comes from Gaelic, where 'Dun' means fort and 'Ringill' refers to a ravine point. This location held strategic importance for communities who needed to control access along the coastline.
Access to the ruins is via stepping stones at the mouth of a stream leading toward the western shore of Loch Slapin. The ground can become wet and slippery in bad weather, so sturdy footwear and care are recommended when exploring the site.
The stone walls served a dual purpose as both a defensive barrier against enemies and an enclosure for livestock. This combined function was typical of settlements from this era, where security and animal husbandry went hand in hand.
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