There was an original castle built on this site by the Campbell Earls of Argyll in the 15th century. James V visited it in 1533 and Mary Queen of Scots in 1562. But that castle was set on fire by the Marquis of Montrose in 1644 during the Civil War.
The 3rd Duke of Argyll built the present castle (and much of the town of Inveraray) in the 1740s. It is more of a mansion than a castle. It was considered to be "inferior" to its predecessor - and the conical "pepper pots" were added to provide more of a "castle" look.
Although the castle is still the home of the Duke of Argyll, many of the rooms in the castle, with their French neo-classical decor, are open to the public. The main hall soars to the full height of the house and is decorated with a superb collection of weapons. There are collections of tapestries, paintings and items of special interest to members of Clan Campbell. Rob Roy McGregor's sporran and dirk handle are on view.
The Argyll and the Isles Tourist Board covers Oban and Lorne and on other Web sites you can find out more at Argyll on Line and Oban and North Argyll. The site covering the Mull of Kintyre describes the area as "the nearest place to nowhere and the furthest from anywhere."
