MacDonald (McDonald) of Sleat
Dive into the storied past of Clan MacDonald, the oldest and largest of all Scottish clans. For nearly four centuries, Clan Donald dominated the west highlands and the Hebrides, wielding significant power as landowners and influential players in Scotland's political and military spheres. The clan's heritage is preserved through its eight main branches: Antrim, Ardnamurchan, Clanranald, Duunyveg and the Glens, Glencoe, Glengarry, Keppoch, and Sleat.
MacDonald Clan of Sleat Crest and Motto
Gaelic Name: MacDhomhnuill
Crest: A hand in armour fesswise holding a cross crosslet fitchée Gules
Motto: Per mare per terras (By sea and by land)
Origin of Name: Gaelic, Domhnull (World ruler)
Badge: Heather
Lands: Skye
Historic Seat: Dunscaith Castle, Skye
Clan Chief: Sir Ian MacDonald Of Sleat Bt
Embrace the spirit of Clan MacDonald with our exclusive collection of tartan apparel and accessories at Tartan Vibes Clothing. Each piece is crafted to reflect the rich history and proud traditions of the clan. By wearing the MacDonald Tartan, you are not only celebrating your heritage but also showcasing a timeless style that resonates with Scottish pride.
Explore our diverse range of products, including:
- Polo Tartan Shirts
- Scottish Clan Hoodies
- MacDonald Tartan T-Shirts
- Tumblers with Clan Crest
- Canvas Bags with Tartan Patterns
- Long Sleeve Tartan Shirts
- MacDonald Tartan Bomber Jacket
Explore the MacDonald Clan collection today to find the perfect tartan items that honor the legacy of Clan MacDonald and connect you to a noble past. Uncover the fascinating chronicles of Scotland's most illustrious clan through our beautifully designed products and bring a piece of history into your wardrobe with Tartan Vibes Clothing.
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Macdonald Tartan
MacDonald Modern Tartan
MacDonald Ancient Tartan
MacDonald Dress Tartan
MacDonald Dress Ancient Tartan
MacDonald Dress Modern Tartan
MacDonald Dress Irish Tartan
Macdonald Lord of The Isles Hunting Tartan
MacDonald of Ardnamurchan Tartan
MacDonald of Boisdale Tartan
MacDonald of Clan Ranald Tartan
MacDonald of Clan Ranald Modern Tartan
MaDonald of Glenaladale Tartan
MacDonald of Glencoe Tartan
MacDonald of Kingsburgh Tartan
MacDonald of Lochmaddy Tartan
MacDonald of Sleat Tartan
MacDonald of The Isles Tartan
MacDonald of The Isles Hunting Ancient Tartan
MacDonald of The Isles Hunting Modern Tartan
MacDonald Tartans
21 variations
The MacDonald Clan Tartan features a striking combination of colors, often including shades of dark green, navy blue, red and black. The arrangement of these hues in the tartan pattern is a testament to the clan's distinct aesthetic.
Each tartan can have multiple variations, the most common of which are MacDonald Tartan, MacDonald of Clanranald Tartan, MacDonald of Glencoe Tartan, MacDonald of Sleat Tartan, MacDonald of the Isles Tartan, MacDonell of Keppoch Tartan, MacDonald of Kingsburgh Tartan, MacDonell of Glengarry Tartan
Explore the history of Clan MacDonald
How it all started
Territories
Clan MacDonald, also known as Clan Donald, traces its origins to Somerled, a 12th-century Norse-Gaelic warlord who became the first Lord of the Isles. The clan’s power grew rapidly in the west of Scotland, with significant holdings across the Hebrides, including Islay, Skye, and parts of the mainland such as Argyll and Lochaber. At their height, the MacDonalds were among the most powerful clans in Scottish history, ruling much of the western seaboard independently from the Scottish crown. Today, the MacDonald name remains widespread throughout Scotland and beyond, a testament to the clan’s expansive legacy.
Clan Chief
The current High Chief of Clan Donald is Godfrey James Macdonald of Macdonald, 8th Lord Macdonald and 34th Chief of Clan Donald. He holds the ancestral seat at Armadale Castle on the Isle of Skye, which also houses the Clan Donald Centre and Museum of the Isles.
Armadale Castle
Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Armadale Castle, located on the picturesque Sleat Peninsula of the Isle of Skye, has long been associated with the MacDonalds of Sleat, a powerful branch of Clan Donald. Though now in ruins, it remains a symbol of the clan's enduring legacy in the Highlands.
The MacDonalds established a residence at Armadale in the early 17th century, but the current Gothic-style mansion dates back to 1815, commissioned by Lord MacDonald as a grand family home. Designed to impress, it was built amidst lush woodland and gardens overlooking the Sound of Sleat.
Unfortunately, a devastating fire in 1855 damaged much of the central building, and while parts were restored and inhabited until the 1920s, the main structure gradually fell into disrepair. Today, the remains of Armadale Castle evoke a romantic grandeur, surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens.
The site now hosts the Clan Donald Centre and the Museum of the Isles, which preserves the rich history of the Lords of the Isles and the MacDonald clan's vital role in Scottish history. Exhibits include ancient artifacts, genealogical records, and captivating tales of clan warfare and diplomacy.
With its serene gardens, forest trails, and sweeping coastal views, Armadale Castle offers visitors both a peaceful retreat and a meaningful connection to the proud legacy of Clan MacDonald.
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