Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle, an imposing medieval fortress in the heart of Norwich, Norfolk, stands as a testament to England's rich and tumultuous history. Constructed under the orders of William the Conqueror between 1066 and 1075, this grand structure has served various roles throughout the centuries, from a royal palace to a gaol, and now a vibrant museum and art gallery. With its striking architecture and captivating history, Norwich Castle is a must-visit for anyone exploring the region.

The History of Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle's origins date back to the aftermath of the Norman Conquest of England. William the Conqueror built the castle to consolidate his control over East Anglia, a region that had been resistant to Norman rule. The castle's initial form was a motte and bailey, a common design for Norman fortifications, featuring a wooden keep on a raised earthwork mound surrounded by a protective enclosure.

The earliest recorded event at Norwich Castle occurred in 1075, during the Revolt of the Earls. Ralph de Gael, the Earl of Norfolk, rebelled against William and fortified himself within the castle. However, the rebellion was quashed, and Ralph's wife, Emma, who had been left in charge, secured safe passage out of the country for herself and her garrison.

By the year 1100, the wooden keep was replaced with the stone keep that stands today, a process that continued until 1121. This formidable structure, with its two floors and entrance on the upper level, was accessed via an external stairway known as Bigod Tower. Over the centuries, the castle saw numerous conflicts and changes in ownership, reflecting the turbulent history of medieval England.

The Castle as a Prison

From the 13th century onwards, Norwich Castle began to be used as a prison, a role it maintained until 1887. During this period, the castle underwent several modifications to accommodate its new function. In the late 18th century, renowned architect John Soane undertook a significant rebuild of the prison, removing the interior walls of the keep and constructing cells for male felons. However, this design was heavily criticized for its lack of consideration for the castle's historical and architectural significance.

The prison reformer John Howard visited Norwich Castle multiple times between 1774 and 1782, documenting the harsh conditions faced by inmates. His observations highlighted the need for improved facilities, particularly for women prisoners. Subsequent modifications by William Wilkins in the early 19th century aimed to address these issues, resulting in a more extensive prison complex that remained in use until the late 19th century.

Conversion to Museum and Art Gallery

In 1894, Norwich Castle was transformed into a museum and art gallery, a role it continues to fulfill to this day. The conversion, overseen by architect Edward Boardman, involved significant alterations to the castle's interior. Soane's cell complex was removed, and new flooring and balconies were installed, creating a space suitable for displaying the museum's diverse collections.

The museum and art gallery at Norwich Castle house an impressive array of artifacts, including works of art, archaeological finds, and natural history specimens. Visitors can explore the rich history of the region through these exhibits, gaining insights into the lives of the people who once inhabited this historic site.

Exploring Norwich Castle

A visit to Norwich Castle offers a fascinating journey through time. As you approach the castle, its striking stone keep, adorned with intricate arcading, commands attention. The keep, measuring approximately 95 feet by 90 feet and standing 70 feet high, is one of the most highly ornamented keeps in England.

Inside the castle, the museum's exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of the region's history. Highlights include the Boudica Gallery, which explores the life and legacy of the legendary Iceni queen, and the Anglo-Saxon and Viking Gallery, showcasing artifacts from these early periods of English history.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive collection of fine art, featuring works by renowned artists such as John Crome and John Sell Cotman, both members of the Norwich School of painters. The castle's natural history exhibits, including displays of local wildlife and geological specimens, offer a glimpse into the natural world of Norfolk.

Notable Executions

Norwich Castle's history as a prison includes several notable executions. One of the most famous is that of Robert Kett, leader of Kett's Rebellion in 1549. Kett and his brother William were accused of high treason for their roles in the peasant uprising. Robert Kett was hanged in chains from the castle battlements, a grim reminder of the harsh punishments of the time.

Another notable execution was that of James Blomfield Rush, who was convicted of the double murder of Isaac Jermy and his son in 1848. Rush's trial and execution drew significant public attention, with thousands of spectators witnessing his hanging at Norwich Castle.

Architectural Significance

Norwich Castle's architectural significance is evident in its impressive stone keep, which has been described as the most highly ornamented in England. The keep's exterior features decorative arcading, a characteristic shared with only one other keep in Norfolk, Castle Rising. Although the interior has been extensively modified over the centuries, the castle's architectural heritage remains a key attraction for visitors.

In conclusion, Norwich Castle is a remarkable historic site that offers a captivating glimpse into England's past. From its origins as a Norman fortress to its role as a prison and its current function as a museum and art gallery, the castle's rich history and striking architecture make it an essential destination for anyone visiting Norwich. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the region's heritage, Norwich Castle promises an unforgettable experience.