Contrary to BRAVEHEART, the real Battle of Stirling was won as a result of a bridge.  The one pictured here is on the site of the subject bridge.  William Wallace and his volunteers fought a battle which a collapsing bridge( that they had sabotaged) allowed them to separate the superior forces and win a decisive victory.

The castle was the second capital of Scotland, just after Perth, with the eventual capital of Edinburgh.  This was smaller, but far more attractive and warm in feeling. 

That is, until you reach the defensive perimeter.  The sheer walls and gates are easily defended.

The graveyard is for the various defenders of Stirling, and the monument on the hill was erected to honor Walace and his men.