FORRES

small royal burgh (town) in the council area and historic county of Moray, northeastern Scotland, 12 miles (19 km) west-southwest of Elgin. The town's first royal charter was probably granted in 1150 by King David I and, in any case, was confirmed by James IV in 1496. The castle was a royal hunting seat frequented by the Scottish kings from William I (the Lion) onward and, traditionally, by Duncan and Macbeth. Sueno's Stone, situated at the east end of the town, is an impressive sculptured monolith 23 feet (7 metres) high, possibly dating to the 9th century and probably commemorating a battle between Norse invaders and the native Picts and Scots. The Witches Stone was the scene of early witch burnings. Contemporary industries include whisky distilling and tourism. Pop. (1991) 8,531.