Dunadd Fort: A Natural Stronghold of Gaelic Kings
In the heart of Scotland's stunning landscape lies Dunadd Fort, a place that encapsulates the essence of power and royalty. Lying within a natural boggy basin and crowned with a series of terraces, this fortification is a testament to the strategic brilliance of its builders. In this blog post, we'll embark on a journey through time to unravel the historical significance and natural wonders of Dunadd Fort.
A Natural Fortification
Dunadd Fort's location alone makes it a compelling choice for a power centre and fortification. Resting within a naturally formed boggy basin, the fort stands atop a sequence of terraces that provide natural defences, making it an ideal site for the kings of old to establish their dominion. As we explore the ascent to the summit, we'll come to appreciate the profound importance of this site and its royal owner.
The Climb to Power
The journey to the pinnacle of Dunadd Fort is more than just a physical ascent; it's a symbolic climb to power. Ascending the hill, visitors pass through a narrow natural passage, an enigmatic threshold leading to a realm of history and regal authority. Along the way, you'll traverse a series of terraces, each adorned with the remnants of once-formidable stone walls. The enclosure at the summit, enveloped by robust defenses, is believed to be where the king wielded his influence and ruled his kingdom.
Home of Kings
Dunadd Fort's historical roots stretch back more than 2,000 years, as revealed by excavations in the 1980s. However, it gained international renown as a royal power center during the reign of the Gaelic kings of Dál Riata, a kingdom that thrived from approximately AD 500 to AD 800. Dunadd is one of the precious few places referenced in early historical records, first mentioned in AD 683.
By that time, it had already solidified its status as a major power centre, possibly serving as the principal stronghold of Dál Riata. Interestingly, it may also be the site where St. Columba, a prominent figure in early Celtic Christianity, reputedly encountered a merchant from Gaul in the late 500s, further cementing Dunadd's place in history.
Power in Stone
While the strategic location of Dunadd Fort speaks volumes, the carved treasures it houses on a terrace just below the citadel tell a story of their own. Here, etched into the rock, one can find a basin meticulously cut into the stone, an image of a boar, an inscription in the ogham alphabet, and two human footprints. Among these, the carved footprints are perhaps the most intriguing. These footprints are believed to have played a role in inauguration ceremonies for new kings, symbolizing the incoming ruler's dominion over the land. Remarkably, similar footprints can be found outside Clickimin Broch, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the ancient traditions and customs that once thrived within these storied fortifications.
Dunadd Fort, with its natural defenses and rich history, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Gaelic kings of Dál Riata. As visitors traverse its terraces and contemplate the carved footprints, they connect with a bygone era when this natural stronghold was the epicenter of power and royal authority. It's a place where history and nature converge, inviting all to explore the mysteries of Scotland's past.
We visit Dunadd Fort and many other ancient sites such as burial cairns and standing stones in Kilmartin Glen on our Standing Stones tour. Click the picture below to take a look!
