Description:

The history of Craigievar goes back to at least the 14th century. We know that the Mortimer family held the estate since 1376, but it was not until 1575 that Sir John Mortimer began the process of transforming the house into the impressive residence we see today. Sir John was rising in society, and he wanted a house that befitted his rank of baron.

The story of Craigievar really begins in 1610, when it was purchased by William Forbes of Menie, brother of the Bishop of Aberdeen.

Forbes, though a young man, had made a fortune by importing wood from the Baltic region. In the course of his merchant efforts, he visited the port of Danzig so many times that he became known as 'Danzig Willie'. Forbes married Margaret Woodward, and their initials can be found throughout the castle.

Danzig Willie wanted Craigievar to reflect his wealth and status and still looks as it did in the early 17^th century.

As lighting was never installed, a visit, especially on a grey and blustery day, gives a good indication as to the atmosphere in ages past. It is not only a pleasure to look at the outside. The inside (tour!) is just as interesting.