Cultural heritage castleBalmoral is considered one of the most famous castles of Scotland, although it does not belong to ancient buildings. Nevertheless, this place is still the current residence of the English kings, impressive travelers with its unique appearance and respect for the original Scottish traditions.
An excursion into the past
Задолго до покупки большого участка земли семьей English kings in this part of Scotland was a fortress and estate, from which Balmoral castle derives its name. There are several versions of the descriptions of this historical event:
- Some say that buying land inScotland was the decision of Prince Albert, whose terrain caused associations with his homeland, Thuringia. Then, by order of the monarch, a Gothic castle was built in the old Scottish style, which was later presented as a gift to his wife.
- Others believe that the idea of buying estatesbelonged to Queen Victoria herself. The transaction took place for 30,000 guineas after the death of the previous owner of the site, choked with fish bone. And after, on the orders of the Queen, a beautiful castle was erected, which became the summer residence.
- According to the third version, first Albert andVictoria rented a medieval castle in the Highland in 1848. And since they liked the place very much, they decided to buy their own piece of land here for a summer residence.
Despite the large number of versions, the factsare as follows. The acquisition of the Balmoral estate took place in 1852. Since the old Gothic castle was too cramped and inconvenient for owners, construction began on a new one. For this was invited the famous architect William Smith. His project was completed by 1856.
To the royal couple did not experience biginconvenience, the new structure began to build at some distance from the previous one. And when all the work was completed, the old building was destroyed. It is known that the last Russian emperor Nicholas II and his wife in 1896 visited the Balmoral castle. What happened to the fortress now?
Balmoral Castle today
From the very beginning to the castle was special, reverentan attitude. It is considered the hallmark of all English kings, beginning in the mid-nineteenth century. Therefore, the Balmoral Castle is still used as a summer cottage. According to the inhabitants of the castle, everyone who has ever visited this fabulous, paradise-like place will be irresistible to come back here again and again.
Every year the family of English monarchs lives in thisterrain up to 10 weeks. This period falls on the last month of summer and the beginning of autumn. At this time, the visit to this Scottish sight ends.
Traditions are carefully kept inside the castle.For example, from ancient times it was decided to start the morning with music played on a bagpipe, an old Scottish instrument. This kind of "alarm clock" is used today. The interior of the premises is also made in the old-Scottish style. And everyone inside must necessarily be dressed in the national dress of this country.
The appearance of the castle
Externally, the summer residence of kings is different fromtraditional Scottish architecture with rectangular towers in the form of fortifications. Since Prince Albert was keenly interested in innovations in this area, he sought to fit the structure in the relief of the area as naturally as possible.
Those who compiled the description of Balmoral Castle,note the relatively small height of the structure. Most of it is a building of 3 floors with a basement. The watchtower is the highest part of the building. In the center of the main part of the building there is a tower that connects two courtyards located diagonally. To enhance the romance of the external appearance, small turrets were made in the corners of the house.
For the construction of the castle was chosen creamgranite. Because of him, the Balmoral Castle acquired such a majestic and noble appearance. And thanks to the figures depicting saints and heraldic animals, the walls turned into a real work of art.
About the area near the castle
The total area acquired by the royalfamily in the XIX century, is about 20 000 hectares of land. In addition to the castle, there are virgin forests on it, in which the best hunting grounds in the country are located.
The waters of the River Dee, which flows around the castle,This is a home for lots of fish. Therefore, one of the entertainment for guests is fishing. At the same time, an ancient tradition is observed: all fish caught in these places must be released back into the river before sunset.
Since Balmoral Castle is in the mountainousarea, its land is little adapted for agriculture. Nevertheless, vegetables and fruits are actively grown on the estate, which are then served at the royal table.
Describing the beauty surrounding the castle, it is impossible notmention amazing flower beds, greenhouse. Of the natural beauty in the memory of many tourists is the beautiful sea, narrow mountain trails and majestic waterfalls.
Features of visiting the castle by tourists
Since Balmoral Castle in Scotland isexisting royal residence, his visit is open when the owners of the house are absent. Therefore, planning a visit to this unique place is in the period from April to July.
Every visitor for a fixed feeallow you to enjoy the surroundings of the castle and inspection of the building itself outside. Inside the magnificent castle are available only some rooms. Personal rooms of the royal family remain closed to visitors all year round.
Недалеко от замка для туристов открыты special cafes where you can taste real English tea. For those who came to Balmoral Castle for the first time, this simple-looking ceremony leaves an indelible impression.
Expositions for tourists inside the castle
Внутри замка вниманию гостей представлены бальные halls. In the period of visiting these places, the queen and her family are held here great holidays and receptions. During the tourist period there are a variety of expositions. Men can enjoy the study of the collection of weapons that is stored here.
In these halls are placed portraits, by which one canlearn the tastes and hobbies of members of the royal family in different years. So, the peculiarity of the English kings has always been the love of dogs. Therefore, since 2014, part of the exhibition is reserved for these pets.
Many people call the area Balmoral herebyparadise, as seen here leaves one of the most vivid impressions. Therefore, planning a trip to Scotland, be sure to visit this place. It will be a source of unforgettable feelings.
