5. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an ancient stronghold located atop Castle Rock in Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland.
It is unclear exactly when it was constructed, but there has been a royal castle at the location since the reign of David I in the 12th century.
It continued to be a royal residence until 1603 and the Union of the Crowns.
Edinburgh Castle has been involved in numerous historical conflicts, including the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century and the Jacobite Rising of 1745. It has been besieged, both successfully and unsuccessfully on many occasions.
From the 17th century to the 19th century the castle was used as a military base with a large garrison.
In the 1800’s it was recognized as a historical monument and various restoration programs have been carried out since.