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A previously overlooked stronghold discovered on a Hebridean location could have sheltered monarchs who controlled extensive regions of the Scottish west.

Archaeologists propose the structure, built on two islets within a lake at this historic site, belonged to high-ranking figures more than 700 years in the past.

Subsequent rulers comprised highland chieftains who became known as the Lords of the Isles.

These lords developed this location into a power base from which they controlled the Hebrides, mainland territories and parts of the northern Highlands.

Experts have dedicated almost 30 years examining the site to gain a fuller understanding of its place in the domain of the Island rulers, as well as the location’s ancient past.

Ruins of a fortress were identified and dated to the 12th and 13th centuries, before the rulers gained influence.

The castle contained a square-shaped central building similar to those built within well-defended castles in northern England, historical sites and English castles.

The keep included residential areas, central yards, food preparation zones, a great hall where events were held and a chapel with an adjacent burial ground.

Experts mentioned that European kings in these regions were famous for erecting square keeps, and they proposed that Finlaggan's was built as a display of power and resources.

The castle was likely dismantled because it was weakened or compromised during raids.

A palace was subsequently built on the very site for the regional ruler.

The Island rulers behaved like monarchs and believed they were counterparts of Scottish and English royalty.

They conducted attacks in mainland Scotland and struck sites such as Urquhart Castle on the edge of Loch Ness.

According to a new book, authors declared that this location was the chieftains' primary headquarters.

The volume has been produced by a research institute.

An author led a team of professionals and assistants in revealing additional details about this location.

"The analysis of all the information that was assembled has been a central aspect of my work since the 1990s, and I hope I have not only offered an report of importance but also a foundation for others to carry out more study in the years to come."

A senior figure stated that the organization's mission was to disseminate understanding of the history as widely as achievable.