Editing Castle Fraser (section)

==Construction==
[[File:Castle Fraser, rear view.jpg|thumb|left|A rear view of the castle.]]
[[File:Grampian Map Castle Fraser.png|right|thumb|Location of Castle Fraser within Aberdeenshire.]]
Originally known as ''Muchall-in-Mar'', construction of the elaborate, five-storey [[Z-plan castle]] was begun in 1575 by the 6th Laird of Fraser, Michael Fraser, on the basis of an earlier tower, and was completed in 1636. A panel on the northern side of the castle is signed ''"I Bel"'', believed to be the [[Mason's mark|mark]] of the master mason John Bell of Midmar, the castle is a joint creation over several decades with another master mason of this period, Thomas Leiper.<ref>[https://archive.today/20120629214813/http://www.rcahms.gov.uk/pls/portal/newcanmore.newcandig_details_gis?inumlink=18722 Castle Fraser] Taken from "Aberdeenshire: Donside and Strathbogie - An Illustrated Architectural Guide", by Ian Shepherd, 2006. Published by the Rutland Press</ref>

Castle Fraser is contemporary with other nearby castles: [[Craigievar Castle]], [[Crathes Castle]] and [[Midmar Castle]] which are also believed to have been designed by the Bell family of master masons.

The castle was modernised in a classical style in the late 18th century, with a new entrance inserted in the south side and sash windows throughout. This work was supervised by [[Elyza Fraser]], the lady laird, assisted by [[Mary Bristow]]. Elyza was also responsible for the landscaping of the grounds, sweeping away the remains of the original formal gardens and orchards, and for the construction of the impressive octagonal stable block.

The interiors of the building were entirely reconstructed again between 1820 and 1850, by Charles Fraser, using the architects [[John Smith (architect)|John Smith]] and William Burn. The Library is a fine example of John Smith's regency style with Tudor detailing. Many of William Burn's more extravagant Gothic designs for the most important rooms were not carried out, although a Gothic-style pipe organ was installed (now removed to Kemnay Church).

[[File:Castle Fraser, rear courtyard.jpg|thumb|right|The rear courtyard.]]

External works during this period included the construction of the twin gatehouses (still extant), and a grand domed stair and access corridors with loggias in the courtyard (removed).
The castle was partially restored by the new owners around 1950. The architect and antiquary Dr William Kelly supervised the removal of much 19th-century work to reveal the earlier fabric.

Castle Fraser retains the atmosphere of a family home and still contains the original contents, including Fraser family portraits, furniture and collections. The evocative interiors represent all periods of the castle's history, from the Medieval stone vaulted Great Hall to the Regency Dining Room.