DANIELL, William (1769-1837)
Arros Castle, Isle of Mull

© National Library of Scotland.
William Daniell image supplied by the National Library of Scotland for use in the LEMA Project.

[Plate 27]

...the next feature that engages attention is the CASTLE OF AROS, delineated in the annexed view. Its site, like that of most Hebridean fortresses, is on a steep rock on the sea-coast, the access to which, by land, was probably in ancient times defended by a moat with a draw-bridge. Under the rude tactics that preceded the invention of fireÂarms, such a position would be deemed sufficiently strong and formidable for the residence of a powerful chieftain, who might here concentrate a force adequate to the various purposes of excursive warfare, and might retire to this secure rallying point when pressed by superior numbers. Macdonald, a lord of the isles. is said to have been the founder of this castle; but the precise date of its erection, and the period during which he held it, have not been ascertained. As its name, Aros, in Gaelic, signifies the mansion or habitation," it must have been originally recognized as the residence of a family holding great power and authority. From this state of dignity it appears to have long ago declined, for its characters, even as a ruin, are antiquated and time-worn.

On some of the rising grounds which bound the bay of Aros, as seen in the view, there are patches of small stunted wood, of rather an elegant character than otherwise, which form an agreeable contrast with the naked and abrupt eminence crowned by the ruins of the castle. It is observable that the rocky sides of this eminence are of a lighter colour than the grey stones of the building above, which are apparently of a different species, and may have been preferred as being more applicable to architectural purposes.

Source: Extract from DANIELL, William. A Voyage Round Great Britain [1813-1823].

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