A historical timeline of one of Scotland's most important castles. Its story is Scotland's story.

A seat of royal power


1574 to 1578
The castle is rebuilt. The Half-Moon Battery and Portcullis Gate are added to reinforce its defences.

1615 to 1617
The Royal Palace is extensively renovated for James VI’s visit to his birthplace for his 50th anniversary as king of Scots.

1633
Charles I is the last monarch to sleep in the castle, on the night before his coronation as King of Scotland.

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