Robert the Bruce became one of the most revered Scottish warriors of all time following his historic victory at the Battle of Bannockburn (1314).Robert the Bruce became one of the most revered Scottish warriors of all time following his historic victory at the Battle of Bannockburn (1314).
Robert the Bruce became one of the most revered Scottish warriors of all time following his historic victory at the Battle of Bannockburn (1314).

Scottish Kings: 13 Famous Monarchs of Scotland and why we remember them to this day

From Shakespearean villains to national heroes, peacemakers to warmongers, there have been many Scottish monarchs with unique legacies; some more infamous than others.

Scotland only emerged as the land we know it as today over the course of many centuries with all sorts of fascinating ancestry like the Picts, Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, Gaels and Britons, influencing the fabric of our culture.

For this reason, when discussing Scottish kings, it is important to acknowledge the historical nuances in terms of what constituted ‘Scotland’ or even a ‘King’ as some famous Scottish monarchs were more like tribal chiefs.

Traditionally, our kings were crowned in a ceremony involving the legendary Stone of Destiny at Scone Palace. However, it was taken to England by King Edward I and used for the coronation of English monarchs for 700 years before being returned to Scotland in 1996 (inspiring the 2008 film.)

Here are 13 Scottish kings and why we remember them even to this day.