Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress built on a rocky outcrop near Stonehaven, Scotland. It played an important role in Scottish history spanning over 1000 years. Once home to the Earls Marischal of Scotland, responsible for the security for the Scottish Crown Jewels, it suffered badly due to cannon damage inflicted by Oliver Cromwell in 1651 when he laid siege to the castle attempting to steal the jewels. In 1751 the government confiscated the castle from last Earl Marischal, executed for his involvement with the Jacobite Rising. The castle remained derelict until 1925 when the 1st Viscountess Cowdray began a programme of repair. The castle is now open to the public.