View source for Stirling Castle

'''Stirling Castle''' was built during the 12th century on a dolomite hill overlooking the major ford across the [[River Forth]] that, historically, was the gateway to the north of [[Scotland]]. It was seen as the strategic key to the control of the country.

It changed hands at various times during the [[Middle Ages]]. It was occupied by [[Edward I]] of [[England]] in 1296, retaken by the Scots the next year, then seized again by Edward in 1304. It was besieged by [[Robert Bruce]] in 1313, and a relieving force under [[Edward II]] was smashed by the Scots at the [[Battle of Bannockburn]] in June 1314. It was once more in English hands between 1334 and 1339.

It was the birthplace of kings James II, III and IV of Scotland.
[[Category:Scottish History]]
[[Category:English History]]
[[Category:Castles]]