Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is located in Sutherland, Scotland. (The Highlands)  Since the 13^th century, the home has been the family seat of the Earl of Sutherland and Clan Sutherland.  The Earldom of Sutherland is one of the seven ancient earldoms, and was created in 1235.  The early castle was a fortified keep, with walls six feet thick.  The castle underwent additions from the 16^th century forward.  In 1845, the castle was remodeled to fit the Baronial style.  The gardens as well as the conical spires were influenced by French design.  In 1915, the castle was serving as a naval hospital, and a fire destroyed many of the newer additions.  The home was repaired and renovated after WWI.  In 1963, when the 5^th Duke of Sutherland passed, the Earldom, along with the castle, went to his niece, the current Countess of Sutherland, while the Dukedom passed to the male heir.  The castle became a boy’s boarding school in the late 1960’s, but after seven years, it reverted back to a family home.  The castle is open to the public, with private accommodations used by the Sutherland family.