––The breathtaking, strange and secret ScotlandDEDICATION: I would like to dedicate this book to my parents, Dr Paul and Judy. My love of art and travel and my sense of determination come directly from them, and I love them deeply for it. I would also like to thank my supportive husband, Jason, without whom I would be lost and adrift. My friend and editor, Kemberlee, has also given me a lot of support and inspiration.Facets of Secret ScotlandIntroductionHistory and mythsSuperstitions and beliefsGods and saintsHighland hospitalityCeilidhs and adventuresStunning photosHaggis and CullenskinkMaps and mechanicsDiscounts and offersHidden gemsConclusionMaps and resourcesIntroductionScotland – the name evokes visions of tartan covering every surface, hairy Highland cows, the deep, glistening gold of a whiskey glass, maybe even Mel Gibson in blue war paint and a kilt. But what is the real Scotland, beyond the touristy side and cheesy souvenir shops? What is the soul of the country, this hidden spirit that brings people back? Everyone's memories are unique, so everyone will have a different image of Scotland in their minds. It can be the food, the people, the scenery, the drink, the history, the music – or a combination of all of these – that sing in a person's soul. There are plenty of fascinating things to do, stunning places to see and friendly people to meet in the mystical highlands. Like the colors of the thread woven into a tartan, the aspects change depending on the point of view and over time, to reveal previously hidden depths. I have always had a particular fondness for Scotland and Scottish customs. My great grandmother was a McKenzie, so I knew I had a connection within my ...... middle of paper ...... its eventual contraction. The Romans once again tried to conquer the lands and did as much as possible. to the Firth of Clyde, where they built the Antonine Wall. However, it was invaded and soon abandoned in 160 CE. After the Roman withdrawal, four tribes took dominion in Scotland. To the east were the Picts, who dominated the lands from the River Forth and Shetland. They were known as the Kingdom of Fortriú and were probably headquartered at Menteith or Strathearn. To the west, the Gaelic tribe of the Dál Riata, from Ireland, had their fortress at Dunadd in Argyll. The southern kingdom of Strathclyde was of Brithonic ancestry, also known as Alt Clut, and was headquartered at Dumbarton Rock. To the southeast was the kingdom of Bernicia, descended from the Germanic invaders from Angle. From this latter kingdom came the Anglo-Saxon kings of Northumbria..