Castle Fraser
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Castle Fraser is a castle near Inverurie in the Aberdeenshire region of Scotland.
Originally known as Muchall-in-Mar, construction of the elaborate, five-storey Z-plan castle was begun in 1575 by the 6th Laird of Fraser, Michael Fraser and was completed in 1636. A panel on the northern side of the castle is signed "I Bel", believed to be the mark of the master mason during much of the construction; however, the castle is actually a joint creation with another famous master mason of this period, Leiper.
Castle Fraser is contemporary with other famous nearby castles: Craigevar Castle, Crathes Castle and Muchalls Castle. Muchalls Castle was built over a 13th century stronghold of Clan Fraser, and its 17th century reconstruction was conducted by master mason Leiper.
The castle stands in over 300 acres (1.2 km²) of open woodland and farmland, including a walled garden and two forest trails. There is archaeological evidence of an older square tower beneath the current construction.
Today, the castle is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is open to tourists during the summer months. It can also be hired for weddings and corporate events.
[edit] References
- Tranter, Nigel, The Fortified House in Scotland
