Scottish castle with Disney connections covered in pink for major restoration
WeirdNews
'Make Craigievar pink again'
SCOTLAND (Web Desk) - Craigievar Castle in Scotland has been enveloped in pink mesh for a major conservation project in a bid to restore its "fairytale" aesthetics.
The castle, which is said to have inspired Walt Disney s Cinderella castle was covered in seven storeys of the protective pink mesh as restoration work is set to begin.
Craigievar s multiple turrets and pink walls are famous features of the castle, but these have been challenged by extreme weather.
The National Trust of Scotland (NTS) is undertaking the revamp, having replaced the wall s finish in 2009, but capricious weather patterns caused by climate change means more work is needed to ensure the castle can withstand the increasingly wet weather.
Iain Hawkins, a regional director for NTS, said: "Craigievar holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the local community, across Scotland and indeed globally, thanks in no small part to the castle s famous pink exterior introduced in 1824 by Sir John Forbes."
The castle embraces the Scottish Baronial style and is among the best-preserved tower houses in Scotland.
Make Craigievar pink again
The trust is urging people to support its "Pink Again" campaign to raise funds for the restoration.
Mr Hawkins said: "It s our duty to ensure that this much-loved castle is protected against climate change in a way that is sympathetic to the natural environment and heritage of this magnificent building.
"If you want to help us keep this enchanting castle safe from rainwater ingress and ensure that visitors can continue to fall in love with Craigievar for many generations to come, please consider donating to our campaign."
The project, which includes applying multiple coats of limewash to the castle walls to refresh the colour, is expected to be completed by spring 2024.
NTS completed a similar project at the Hill House in Helensburgh, by architect Charles Mackintosh.
The structure there was protected by a giant, chainmail mesh "box" built to protect its walls from further damage and took a decade to complete.
While Craigievar s grounds will remain open to visitors throughout the works, facilities will be closed.
