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Decorative Arts

Architecture

Although architecture in south west Scotland has never had a defining tradition, it has always had to put up with the same wet climate and the same geology which has meant that buildings, for the most part, have been built from stone. With special note are the many large buildings such as churches and town halls constructed from red or blonde sandstone. Perhaps the buildings that people are most familiar with are the abundant and picturesque castles which were built in the area from the 14th to the 17th century. The region has however had a varied history and changing religious traditions, imperialism, industrial growth and urban development have all left their mark on the architectural landscape of the south west.