Castle Menzies

Castle Menzies

United Kingdom.This spectacular sixteenth century castle, restored by the Menzies Clan Society welcomes vistors. Seat of the Chiefs of Clan Menzies for over 400 years and importantly situated, it was involved in the turbulant history of the Highlands and here Bonnie Prince Charlie rested on his way to Culloden in 1746. Architecturally fascinating, it is a splendid example of the transition between earlier rugged fortress and later mansion house.Castle Menzies stands north of the River Tay at Weem on the B846, one and half miles from Aberfeldy. For further information on Castle Menzies and visiting it, please go to the new Castle Menzies.Menzies is most likely Norman in origin with the family originating from Mesnieres near Rouen.The Menzies' came north at some point and were granted lands in Lothian in the 12th Century, almost certainly in exchange for military service. This is the same route that other Scottish clans with Norman origins such as Bruce, Moray (Murray) and St. Clair (Sinclair), established themselves in Scotland.The first definitive chief was Sir Robert de Meyneris, who became Chamberlain to King Alexander II in 1249. At some point he received a grant of lands in West Atholl, including Culdares and Duneaves. Part of the condition of the grant is that Sir Robert became 'loco pateris' to the people of the lands in accordance with Gaelic custom.His son, Sir Alexander Menzies was granted the lands of Aberfeldy and Weem. website: www.castlemenzies.org

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