Clackmannan Tower
Clackmannan Tower is a tower house near the Scottish town of Clackmannan in Clackmannanshire unitary authority. In 1960, the building was added to the Scottish lists of monuments in the highest category A. In addition, the building is protected as a Scheduled Monument since 1935.
History
The building dates from the 14th century. About the builder, there are different information. Either let the Scottish king David II built the tower or not until Robert Bruce (not to be confused with Robert the Bruce ), who acquired the lands in 1359. Following the local traditions, was Robert the Bruce († 1329 ) the builder. Backed by contrast is that the lands 1359-1796 was owned by the Clan Bruce. As a location, the fingertip of the King 's Seat Hill was chosen, which represented a strategically important position by the panorama of the valley of the Forth. First, a two-story, rectangular building, which was extended during the 15th century was born. Firstly, the existing building was increased to four stories, on the other hand, a five-story annex was added so that an L-shaped layout was at right angles. Furthermore, a mansion was built next to the tower, which was demolished with the death of the last heir in 1791. The Clackmannan Tower was remodeled in the 16th and 17th centuries. Among other things, the entrance was moved from the east and the west side. Since the 1950s, Historic Scotland manages the tower. Due to subsidence caused by mining activities damage caused to the building. The tower interior can not be visited at present due to structural damage.
Description
The 24 m high Clackmannan Tower is located on the western edge of the city Clackmannan. It has an L - shaped plan, the south wing five and the north wing is four stories. The masonry consists of rubble stone and partly built ashlar. Originating from the 17th century entrance is topped by a triangular pediment. Original has entered the tower via a staircase on the first floor. The building includes a projecting battlements reinforcement. The slated roof is recent. Of the outbuildings fragments are possibly still preserved.