Originally the site of a Pictish settlement dating back to the sixth century, a castle was built here (they believe) around 1230. The castle was occupied by the English in 1297, but passed back to the Scots in 1303. Throughout its turbulent history, it was inhabited by many different English and Scottish leaders, including Robert the Bruce (most recently of Braveheart fame). From the thirteenth to the seventeenth centuries, it was the site of bloody battles that often figured heavily in the Scottish fight for independence. In 1692, Scottish soldiers destroyed the castle so it wouldn't fall into English hands again.