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McCaig's Tower, Oban, Highlands, Scotland
McCaig's Tower sits atop Battery Hill in the heart of Oban town. Undoubtedly Oban's most outstanding feature, McCaig's Tower was built in 1897 by local banker John Stuart McCaig.
McCaig's aim was to provide work for local stonemasons, and a lasting monument to the McCaig family. The original intention was to complete it with a large tower in the middle, but this, like the intended statues of McCaig's family, never materialised. This has resulted in the Coliseum lookalike often being referred to as McCaig's Folly.
The steep climb from the town centre to McCaig's Tower is well worth the effort when faced with the spectacular views across Oban Bay to the Atlantic Islands. The interior comprises a grassy hilltop and gardens, which are well maintained – a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of town life.