Inverness Castle, located at Castle Wynd in Inverness, Scotland, stands on the site of earlier fortifications dating back to the 11th century. The castle’s current red sandstone structure was rebuilt in the 19th century,
The first castle was established by King David I in the 12th century. Over the centuries, it changed hands several times during the Scottish Wars of Independence and was destroyed and rebuilt more than once. In 1562, Mary Queen of Scots was denied entry to the castle, leading her supporters to capture it after a three-day siege. The castle also played a role in the Jacobite Risings of the 18th century, with Bonnie Prince Charlie ordering its destruction in 1746 to prevent it from falling into government hands.
Following its destruction, the castle lay in ruins until the early 19th century when the present courthouse and prison were constructed on the site. The castle continued to serve as a courthouse and prison into the 20th century. Today, it is being transformed into a major tourist attraction that will showcase its fascinating history.
Throughout its long history, Inverness Castle has been the scene of many dramatic and sometimes gruesome events. It’s no surprise then that the castle is considered one of the most haunted places in Inverness. Visitors and staff have reported numerous paranormal experiences over the years, adding to the castle’s already rich and colorful history.
One of the most well-known ghosts said to haunt Inverness Castle is that of King Duncan, who was murdered by Macbeth in Shakespeare’s famous play. In reality, Macbeth’s castle was located elsewhere, but local legend has long connected Inverness Castle with the story. The ghost of King Duncan has been spotted on numerous occasions walking along the banks of the River Ness near the castle.
Another ghostly figure seen at the castle is the mysterious “Green Lady”. She is believed to be the spirit of a young woman who fell to her death from one of the castle towers. Dressed in a long green gown, she has been witnessed gliding through the castle grounds before vanishing near the tower.
The dungeons beneath the castle are also a hotspot for paranormal activity. In the 16th century, the dungeons were used to hold prisoners, many of whom met grisly ends. Visitors to the dungeons have reported feeling sudden drops in temperature, hearing unexplained footsteps, and sensing an oppressive, malevolent presence.
Other ghostly encounters at the castle include sightings of a spectral piper and a ghostly dog. The sound of bagpipes has been heard echoing through the castle corridors, even when no one is playing. Some believe this to be the ghost of a piper who was killed at the castle centuries ago. The ghostly dog is said to appear near the castle well, though its origins are unknown.
Perhaps the most disturbing paranormal occurrence at Inverness Castle is the strange case of the “Vampire Soldier”. In 1972, a soldier standing guard at the castle claimed he was attacked by a shadowy figure with glowing red eyes and long, sharp teeth. The soldier managed to escape, but was left deeply shaken by the experience. While the identity of his attacker remains a mystery, some speculate it may have been the ghost of one of the many soldiers who died at the castle over the centuries.
Despite its grim reputation, Inverness Castle continues to draw visitors from around the world eager to explore its fascinating history – and perhaps catch a glimpse of one of its ghostly residents. Whether or not one believes in the paranormal, there is no denying that the castle possesses an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere that has been shaped by centuries of war, imprisonment, and bloodshed.