Loch Leven Castle is located on an island in the middle of Loch Leven. Because of its strategic position, the island has been fortified since at least the 6th century. The first stone castle was probably built during the reign of King Alexander, around 1100. Most famously, however, it is associated with Mary Queen of Scots, who used it during hunting expeditions. It was also her prison: she was sent there on June 17, 1567. While there she suffered a miscarriage while carrying twins. She escaped on May 2, 1568, but a few months later found herself imprisoned by Queen Elizabeth I. © 2004 Lawrence I. Charters |