The Battle of Bannockburn, Stirling, Scotland
Stirling Castle was built at the top of a sheer precipice that commanded extensive views over the Forth and surrounding countryside. It was made a royal residence by Alexander II in 1226. But by the end of the century Scotland had lost its independence and Edward I appointed John Balliol to lead the country.
This resulted in the Battle of Bannockburn fought just below the castle on June 23-24th 1314 between Edward II of England and Robert Bruce of Scotland.
At stake was Stirling Castle, the last English stronghold in Scotland. The Scots pikemen were outnumbered by more than three to one by English foot and cavalry.
The Scots used the terrain to great advantage allowing the English to become bogged down in the marshland below their positions. When they attacked, the English were unable to maneuver and suffered many casualties. Edward II escaped, but Gilbert de Clare, Earl of Gloucester and more than 60 barons and baronets were amongst the thousands of English who were killed or taken prisoner. Robert Bruce was able to capitalize on the victory and re-gain independence for Scotland.
Stirling Castle has one of the finest medieval halls in Scotland which once served as a Parliament hall. In the 1540s James V added to the complex of fine buildings when he constructed a palace within the grounds. Mary Queen of Scots was crowned in the Chapel in 1543 and nearly lost her life there by fire in 1561. Now the Castle houses the museum of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders and is in the care of Historic Scotland.
