Repairs begin on clan's island stronghold

Conservation work has started on a clan stronghold in the Western Isles.

Barra's Kisimul Castle dates from the 15th Century and was built on a rock in the sea at Castlebay as a Macneil power base.

It was shut to the public at the start of the Covid pandemic in 2020 and has not reopened since due to concerns about the safety of parts of the building.

Owner, Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said some of the work involved sorting problems with concrete and steel bars used in a major restoration project in the 20th Century.

The public body said some of the damage to concrete and the reinforcement bars had been caused by moisture and salt due to the castle's coastal location and climate change.

A helicopter has been used to deliver equipment and materials for the repairs.

HES' head of north region, Jamie McPherson, said: "We know the significance of Kisimul Castle to the community who are keen to see increased access to the site.

"It has faced some complex conservation challenges, some of which are historic and have been compounded by factors including climate change.

"We’re pleased to be able to begin these works which will allow us to facilitate further work and will help to achieve the longer-term goal of reopening the castle to the local community and visitors."

HES's predecessor, Historic Scotland, took over responsibility for managing and conserving Kisimul in 2000.

At the time the organisation signed a 999-year lease from Ian Roderick Macneil, 46th Clan Chief, for £1 and an annual rent of a bottle of Talisker whisky.

Kisimul is a well-known landmark in the Western Isles.

The castle was a symbol of Gaelic power in the Middle Ages. Its Gaelic name, Caisteal Chiosmuil, means castle of the rock of the small bay in English.

The chiefs of the Macneils of Barra claimed descent from legendary Niall of the Nine Hostages.

Niall was a 5th Century Irish warlord reputed to have fought against the Romans and armies of ancient Scotland, England and France.

The nine hostages are said to have been men seized during his campaigns abroad and were symbols of his power.

Kisimul is thought to have been constructed on the orders of Gilleonan Macneil.

Below the castle he had a house built for the crew of his personal galley.

Another Macneil, known as Ruari The Turbulent, was arrested for piracy of an English ship during King James VI's reign in the 16th Century.