Table of Contents
How old is the Rochester Castle?
934c. 1087
Rochester Castle/Age
Who has lived in Rochester Castle?
The castle is located in the historic heart of Rochester, Kent (‘The Garden of England’, to use its tagline). Charles Dickens lived in Rochester during his childhood – between 1817 to 1821 – and returned to live in the area as an adult. Rochester features in some of Dickens’ novels – for example, Great Expectations.
Was Rochester Castle a Motte and Bailey?
The first recorded reference to a castle at Rochester is in Domesday Book (1086). It was presumably a Motte and Bailey castle built in, or soon after, 1066. Its exact location was uncertain until archaeological excavations in the 1970s uncovered remains of Norman defences on the site of the present castle.
Is Rochester Castle a stone keep castle?
Rochester Castle stands on the east bank of the River Medway in Rochester, Kent, South East England. The 12th-century keep or stone tower, which is the castle’s most prominent feature, is one of the best preserved in England or France.
Why is Rochester not a city?
The cathedral city of Rochester has lost its city status after eight centuries because of an apparent oversight. The old Rochester-upon-Medway City Council was asked if it wanted to employ charter trustees, who would protect the city’s status. That was deemed unnecessary, resulting in the loss of status.
Is Rochester rough?
Overall, there were 11,165 violent or sexual crimes across Rochester, Chatham and Gillingham over this period. Although Rochester and Strood saw less crime overall than other places, the area actually witnessed the most violent and sexual crimes in Medway during the period.
What was the history of the Rochester Castle?
History of Rochester Castle. Built to command an important river crossing, the castle built in stone by Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, in the 1080s was one of the earliest such buildings in England.
How tall is the Tower of Rochester Castle?
Today it stands as a proud reminder of the history of Rochester, along with the cathedral and cobbled streets. Its Norman tower-keep of Kentish ragstone was built about 1127 by William of Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, with the encouragement of Henry I. Consisting of three floors above a basement, it still stands 113 feet high.
Who was the custodian of Rochester in the 12th century?
King John. Custody of Rochester Castle remained with the Archbishops of Canterbury until the end of the 12th century. Despite ascending to the throne in 1199 King John did not confirm Hubert Walter as the castle’s custodian until July 1202. John may have wished to regain direct control of what was an important castle.
Where is Rochester Castle on the Medway River?
Perched high on the site of an old Roman settlement Rochester Castle dominates the skyline. Strategically positioned on the east bank of the River Medway, the massive architectural impact of the old ruined Norman fortifications is evident whichever angle you approach it from.