McCaig's Tower
McCaig's Tower on Battery Hill in Oban,
according to the locals, definitely NOT a folly.
according to the locals, definitely NOT a folly.
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All images are © 400photos.uk
All images are © 400photos.uk
It was built by John Stuart McCaig, a prominent local businessman from 1897 to 1902 and it gave employment to
masons and builders when times were hard in the area, like most follies.
The plan was for a museum and central tower and that the niches would contain statues of his family (and himself, presumably) as a lasting reminder of his wealth (and ego?). Either way it's a spectacular place to visit and is the crowning glory of Oban's skyline.
Sadly he died before the work was completed and his wife and family opted not to continue the construction.
An odd thing about it is that there seems to be an echo within the ring of stone; odd because of the number of gaps in the wall.
Entry is free and there's ample parking. Wheelchair access is easy, but it's uphill all the way.
The plan was for a museum and central tower and that the niches would contain statues of his family (and himself, presumably) as a lasting reminder of his wealth (and ego?). Either way it's a spectacular place to visit and is the crowning glory of Oban's skyline.
Sadly he died before the work was completed and his wife and family opted not to continue the construction.
An odd thing about it is that there seems to be an echo within the ring of stone; odd because of the number of gaps in the wall.
Entry is free and there's ample parking. Wheelchair access is easy, but it's uphill all the way.
