Edinburgh of Scotland

Edinburgh is located on Castle Rock, a large volcanic rock that rises majestically and impressively in the middle of the city of Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe with a long history as a royal residence, military garrison, fortress, and prison. Although there are parts of it used in the military, the castle is a world-famous visitor attraction today. It’s also an iconic part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.

Because of setting upon its mighty rock, Edinburgh Castle’s military potential is clear, so Iron Age people built a hill fort on the rock. The castle has also suffered many sieges. The castle is historically recorded as the most attacked castle in England. During its 1,100-year life, the building has been invaded by at least 26 invasions. During the Wars of Independence, it changed hands many times. In 1314, the Scots retook the castle from the English in a daring night raid led by Thomas Randolph, nephew of Robert the Bruce.

The castle defenses have evolved over hundreds of years. Mons Meg, one of the greatest medieval cannons ever made, was given to King James II in 1457. The Half Moon Battery, built in the aftermath of the Lang Siege of 1573, was armed for 200 years by bronze guns known as the Seven Sisters. Six more guns defend the Argyle Battery, with its open outlook to the north.

Source: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/the-castle/history