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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Sean Murphy

The story behind the hidden pyramid in the Highlands

Pyramids are some of the most incredible structures ever discovered around the world, with those in Cairo and Mexico some of the most recognisable.

But did you know there is one a lot closer to home?

Aberdeenshire in fact.

Hidden away in woodland on the Balmoral Estate in Royal Deeside is an incredible pyramid structure which rises above the trees.

The unbelievable stone cairn, which is one of eleven to be found on the estate, stands like a miniature version of those more famous pyramids built in Ancient Egypt.

Erected by Queen Victoria, it was created in memory of her husband Prince Albert after his death in 1861, aged just 42.

The huge four-sided structure was built using granite and is 41 feet by 41 feet at the base.

The incredible cairn rises up above the trees. (Julia Bryce)

A plaque on the unique monument reads: "To the beloved memory of Albert, the great and good prince and consort. Erected by his broken-hearted widow Victoria."

The Queen also erected other cairns on the estate that she loved, with several built to commemorate the marriages of many of her children such as Beatrice, Helena and Leopold.

Around the same area you'll also find the Crathie Kirk and a statue to John Brown, Queen Victoria's loyal servant of many years until his death in 1883 - with an inscription that describes him as a "friend more than a servant".

Found close to the Royal Locnhagar Distillery - worth popping into for a dram after the visit - the cairns can be accessed via the Crathie car park.

An enjoyable walk, it's worth checking ahead to ensure the estate is open to visitors.

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