When you think of pyramids I would bet that the first thing that comes to mind is the vast sandy expanse of Egypt. Immediately the word conjures up images of hieroglyphics, Cleopatra and King Tut. You would be forgiven for not thinking of these structures in and around the lochs and valleys of a chilly Scotland wilderness. Yet, there are two of these architectural gems hidden across the country. One is nestled in the hills near Balmoral, the late Queen’s favourite home, and the other is almost right next to the A82 between Tarbet and Crianlarich.
I’ve been to both of them and I find them fascinating, each has some amazing material use and different styles and both sit in beautiful areas.
Why does the pyramid work so well in Scotland?
There is, certainly to me, something incredibly striking about a pyramid shape. Unfortunately I am not an architect, so I couldn’t delve into whether they are the best structure for harsh winters, or strong winds, that you tend to find around the country. However from an entirely artistic point of view, I think they are incredible for what they are. A triangle looks so basic but as proven by many civilisations, like the Egyptians or the Mayans, have so many different applications and styles. The two I am talking about today are no different.
I think the pyramid is a great shape for these two marvels because the shape of a triangle is harsh. They are sharp and unforgiving, much like the wilderness of Scotland. But when you are stood next to both of these structures and you look across hills, you find them fitting in quite well. They are the complete opposite style of where they are placed. Their harsh shape bounces off well against the rolling hills and the soft sway of the trees, which are usually more common design choices in these areas, designers looking to match the surroundings with sleeker designs and full of curves, you only need to leave your car in Inveruglas to see what I mean. The cafe situated at the car park follows this style. However these two break apart the landscape, not in a bad way, it’s a breath of fresh air amongst the wilderness as you head towards them. Almost like a beacon hidden in the hills.
The magnificent: Prince Albert’s Cairn
Laid down in memory of Queen Victoria’s late husband Prince Albert, the Cairn is situated in the hills behind the royal family’s Balmoral Castle in Deeside. To reach it you have to head through an amazing walk through the trees in the countryside. It breaks through the serene landscape, towering over it the surrounding villages which look tiny when you’re stood next to the Cairn.
It was built from granite in 1862 after the Prince’s death and sits alongside a set of cairns dotted around the Balmoral Estate. The foreboding masterpiece sits perfectly in the hillside, with its moss filled exterior matching perfectly with the landscape around it. It stands out enough but hides into the scenery perfectly as to not be an eyesore.
Some may not agree with the royal family over the years, but this monument is a testament to some of the designs from the 1800s that have lasted the test of time.
The modern: Inveruglas viewpoint
I rave about sustainability all the time and using our modern knowledge of building materials and techniques to make nondestructive buildings and sculptures. The pyramid, officially called An Ceann Mòr, is located next to one of the biggest lochs in Scotland but also next to an impressive hillside hydro generator – Sloy Power Station.
The timber constructed monument was created by BTE architecture, as part of the Scottish Scenic Routes competition, and is an amazing showcase of using environmentally friendly and sustainable materials to build something amazing in such a remote place in Scotland.
The viewpoint is managed by the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs national park and more information can be found here.