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A previously overlooked stronghold found on a Scottish island may have sheltered monarchs who commanded vast areas of the Highlands and islands.

Historians suggest the building, built spanning two islets within a lake at the location, was owned by high-ranking figures some 700 years ago.

Subsequent rulers comprised highland chieftains who earned the title of the Island Sovereigns.

These lords turned Finlaggan into a strategic headquarters from which they oversaw the island chain, mainland territories and areas within the north west Highlands.

Experts have invested around 30 years studying this location to acquire a fuller knowledge of its place in the kingdom of the clan leaders, as well as the site's earlier history.

Ruins of a stronghold were discovered and placed in the medieval era, before the rulers gained influence.

The structure featured a oblong keep like those built within fortified castles in English border towns, historical sites and English castles.

The keep contained residential areas, central yards, kitchens, a feasting room where celebrations were held and a religious space with an nearby burial ground.

Archaeologists mentioned that Anglo-French rulers in the British Isles were recognized for erecting stone structures, and they proposed that this castle’s was designed as a demonstration of power and prosperity.

The structure may have been dismantled because it was structurally unsound or harmed during conflicts.

A residence was later built on the exact spot for the clan chief.

The Island rulers behaved like sovereigns and saw themselves as peers of Scottish and English royalty.

They conducted attacks in northern Britain and targeted locations such as Urquhart Castle on the edge of a famous lake.

As detailed in research, experts affirmed that this location was the rulers' central base of operations.

The publication has been published by a archaeological institute.

A project director headed a group of specialists and volunteers in revealing new insights about Finlaggan.

"The analysis of all the information that was gathered has been a significant focus of my career since the 1990s, and I aim I have not only provided an report of value but also a starting point for others to pursue more research in the future."

A senior figure stated that the organization's goal was to share knowledge of the heritage as widely as feasible.