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A long-forgotten castle found on a Scottish isle is believed to have been home to rulers who controlled large regions of the Scottish west.

Researchers suggest the fortification, established spanning two small islands within a loch at Finlaggan, was owned by royalty more than 700 years in the past.

Later generations included MacDonald clan chiefs who earned the title of the Masters of the Islands.

These lords transformed the site into a power base from which they governed the island chain, the Argyll region and areas within the northern Highlands.

Archaeologists have invested almost 30 years examining the site to gain a better insight of its role in the kingdom of the clan leaders, as well as the area’s prior uses.

Remains of a castle were uncovered and traced back to the medieval era, prior to the chieftains rose to power.

The structure included a square-shaped central building similar to those located at well-defended castles in English border towns, historical sites and other medieval locations.

The structure included living quarters, courtyards, kitchens, a great hall where celebrations took place and a place of worship with an adjacent cemetery.

Archaeologists mentioned that Norman-inspired rulers in the British Isles were known for constructing rectangular towers, and they proposed that this castle’s was built as a demonstration of power and resources.

The structure may have been demolished because it was weakened or harmed during enemy attacks.

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

The Island rulers acted as monarchs and believed they were counterparts of other royalty.

They conducted attacks in the Scottish mainland and struck sites such as Urquhart Castle on the edge of a Scottish loch.

In a recent publication, authors declared that this location was the rulers' main headquarters.

The book has been released by a research organization.

A project director led a group of specialists and assistants in uncovering new insights about Finlaggan.

"The analysis of all the evidence that was gathered has been a significant part of my work since the last decades, and I trust I have not only delivered an narrative of importance but also a foundation for others to conduct further study in the years to come."

Another expert commented that the organization's purpose was to disseminate knowledge of the heritage as extensively as possible.