As we left Edinburgh heading north to Stirling, the sun shone and we were very glad to finally see it! I've learned that a "sunny" forecast can quite literally mean "the sun will rise today".
Stirling, Scotland (population 35,000) is known as the "Gateway to the Highlands" because of its position between the Scottish Lowlands and Highlands.
The landscape is beautiful and you can see for miles.
Stirling Castle, located on a hill above the city, is one of the largest and most important in Scotland.
The first record of Stirling Castle dates to 1110, but almost all the present buildings were constructed between 1490 and 1600. It was a principal royal center developed by the Stewart kings with a mix of English, French, and German influence reflecting the international ambitions of the Stewart dynasty.
Cemetery for the Church of the Holy Rude Scotland dating back to the 12th century.
This pyramid was built in 1863 and is dedicated to all those who suffered martyrdom in the cause of civil and religious liberty in Scotland.
One of Stirling's more famous former residents is Sir William Wallace (1272 - 1305), a Scottish knight known for leading a resistance during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Along with Andrew Moray, he defeated the English army at the Battle of Stirling Bridge. He was later captured and executed for treason. And a terrible execution it was . . . dragged through the city, hanged, eviscerated, beheaded, drawn and quartered. And that's leaving out some of the details. He is revered today as a Scottish patriot and hero.
Any of this sound familiar? Remember the movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson? Same story.
The Wallace Sword belonging to Sir William Wallace is in the Wallace Monument in Stirling. You can see the monument in the distance and the Stirling Bridge in the foreground of this photo taken from our hotel window.
A closer view of the Wallace Monument
I regret not getting to visit another castle I really wanted to see - Doune Castle. It was built in the 14th century and has survived relatively unchanged and complete.
Look familiar?
That's right. The castle in "Monty Python and the Holy Grail". It was only about 15 minutes away, but we didn't get to go. :( Maybe next time.
Incidentally, we met a very nice couple from the States who are currently contemplating a possible move across the pond. We wish them the best of luck.
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