Scheduled MonumentsScotlandElgin Castle

Elgin Castle

Scotland
HES SM1229
Nation
Scotland
Boundary

Scheduled area

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Overview

History & significance

Elgin Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification located in Morayshire, Scotland, dating to the Norman period, likely established in the twelfth century. The castle consists of an earthen mound topped by a wooden or stone keep, characteristic of early medieval defensive architecture, with an adjoining bailey or outer enclosure. It represents an important early feudal stronghold in northern Scotland, reflecting the spread of Norman-influenced settlement patterns into the region during the medieval period. The site remains visible as an archaeological monument, with its earthworks surviving to demonstrate the form and scale of Norman military architecture in Scotland.

Elgin Castle is a scheduled monument protected by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1229. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Elgin Castle?

Elgin Castle is a motte-and-bailey fortification located in Morayshire, Scotland, dating to the Norman period, likely established in the twelfth century. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic Environment Scotland under reference SM1229.

Who is responsible for protecting Elgin Castle?

Elgin Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic Environment Scotland — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Scotland. The official designation reference is SM1229.

What other scheduled monuments are near Elgin Castle?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Bishop's House,Elgin (1 km), Elgin Cathedral (1.1 km), Elgin, Pans Port and precinct wall (1.2 km).

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