Coull Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Coull Castle is a medieval fortification in Aberdeenshire with a distinctive pentagonal plan and three flanking towers positioned on high ground. The ruins command views over the northern approaches to the surrounding area and reveal the defensive design typical of 13th-century Scottish strongholds.
The castle was built in 1228 by the Durward family as a strategic stronghold for the Barony of O'Neill. It was later destroyed by fire, with archaeological evidence showing charcoal deposits and twisted metal fastenings left behind.
Archaeological excavations conducted in 1912 by Dr. Marshall Mackenzie and continued by W. Douglas Simpson revealed important medieval architectural elements.
The ruins can be reached on foot via walking paths from Coull village, with parking available nearby. The visit is easiest in good weather when the ground is dry and the paths are more manageable.
The fire that destroyed the stronghold left clear archaeological traces with charcoal scattered throughout the soil and twisted iron nails embedded in the ground. These remains suggest the destruction was sudden and intense.
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