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## St Andrews Castle
St Andrews Castle, perched on a rocky promontory in Fife, Scotland, has been a significant site since the late 12th century. Established around 1200 by Bishop Roger de Beaumont, it served as the residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews, the most powerful churchmen in Scotland. (en.wikipedia.org)
During the Wars of Scottish Independence, the castle changed hands multiple times between Scottish and English forces. In 1336, to prevent the English from using it as a stronghold, the Scots destroyed the castle. It was rebuilt around 1400 by Bishop Walter Trail, whose work forms the basis of the current structure. (en.wikipedia.org)
The castle is renowned for its "bottle dungeon," a deep, narrow pit cut into solid rock beneath the Sea Tower, used as a prison for various individuals, including the Duke of Rothesay in 1402 and Archbishop Patrick Graham in 1478. (en.wikipedia.org)
In 1546, during the Scottish Reformation, Protestant reformers seized the castle, leading to a prolonged siege. The mine and counter-mine tunnels from this period remain open to the public today. (en.wikipedia.org)
By the late 17th century, following the abolition of the bishopric, the castle fell into disrepair. Today, it stands as a ruin, maintained by Historic Environment Scotland, offering visitors a glimpse into Scotland's tumultuous history. (en.wikipedia.org)
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