Castle Rushen

　　Castle Rushen is a medieval castle, approximately completed in the 16th century, situated in the town of Castletown in the southern part of the Isle of Man, UK. To the southeast of the towering Castle Rushen lies the Market Square, while to the northeast is the harbor. It is the best-preserved example of a medieval castle among the British Isles and is still currently used as a local courthouse, museum, and educational center.

　　Castle Rushen is also one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. It is said that this grand and massive castle was initially built around the year 1200. Parts of the castle were destroyed when Robert the Bruce captured it in 1313, but it was later rebuilt in the mid-14th century by William de Montacute. By the 15th century, the castle had enhanced its surrounding defenses, such as the northern gate and the drawbridge used for entering and exiting the castle. The outer walls of the castle stand 25 feet high and are 7 feet thick, making them extremely sturdy; the base thickness of the inner walls reaches up to 12 feet, and the main northern tower rises 80 feet high. Prior to the 16th century, few kings or nobles visited Castle Rushen, and it was mainly inhabited by soldiers, officers, and government officials. It once served as the island’s prison, administrative center, mint, and courthouse.

　　Today, the Manx National Heritage has opened it as a tourist attraction. Upon entering, visitors first watch a documentary about the castle, after which they can explore the site: the large courtyard, wooden buildings, warehouses, cannons, and more, allowing them to experience a true-to-life recreation of medieval castle life.

　　Castle Rushen Must-visit reason: The best-preserved medieval castle in the British Isles Continent where the attraction is located: Europe【Europe】 Country/Region where the attraction is located: United Kingdom[Britain] Province/State where the attraction is located: Isle of Man [Isle of Man] City where the attraction is located: Glasgow [Glasgow]