Stirling

Stirling was known in the past as the "Gateway to the Highlands". If you doubt it, just smell the heather.

Stirling used to be the capital of Scotland. As a result, in its parish church, the church of the Holy Rude, royal baptisms and coronations took place.

The Stirling castle, located obviously on a hill, was the house of many kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots. 

The main entrance shows you immediately that it was built as a fortress.

Actually so do the walls.

Inside you can admire the thrones. To be honest they do not seem very comfortable.

Stirling is best known for its role in the Scottish war for independence, fought with England in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, during the reign of king Robert the Bruce.

This part of the Scottish history is best know to the public through the movie "Braveheart", being the nickname of sir William Wallace. He is present almost everywhere in the city.

But his main monument is hard to miss - just look at the hill. Well, when they want to commemorate their heroes Scots think big.

Now as we approach it you can assess the magnitude of the construction.

The stairs are hidden in one of the corners. Sorry my friends, no lift provided.

On the top there is of course and observation deck.

You can see here the panorama of Stirling, with the castle in the back.

As a last remark, I must tell you that Scottish pride is still very strong in Stirling. Many inhabitants hope to recover their independence.

Also on special occasions they like to underline their tradition. Here come the traditional wedding attires.

P.S. The symbol of Stirling is a wolf. With king Robert B. leading a revolt against the English kings and the national hero being executed, the Gateway to the North reminds me of something ...