Chepstow in Monmouthshire, Wales, United Kingdom

Marten's Tower

By Ray Gurganus, August 3, 2019

1. Marten's Tower Marker

Inscription. Click to hear the inscription.

This splendid tower was built c.1288-93 by Roger Bigod, probably replacing an earlier tower here. It contained a suite of grand private rooms on three floors and a private chapel.

All three access doorways had a portcullis, allowing the tower to be isolated from the rest of the castle. The large window onto the courtyard and the fireplaces are later replacements.

Sumptuously appointed, with ornate battlements and painted plaster decoration (some of it still surviving), the tower was possibly intended by Bigod as a guest suite for the king.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Forts and Castles.

Location. 51° 38.659′ N, 2° 40.474′ W. Marker is in Chepstow, Wales, in Monmouthshire. Marker can be reached from Bridge Street. inside Chepstow Castle. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Chepstow, Wales NP16 5EY, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 1 other marker is within walking distance of this marker. Chepstow Priory / The Priory Church of St Mary (about 210 meters away, measured in a direct line).

Henry Marten image. Click for full size.

2. Henry Marten

The tower's modern name comes from Henry Marten (1602-80), a signatory to King Charles I's death warrant. He was imprisoned here following the restoration of King Charles II in 1660.

Chepstow Castle with Marten's Tower on the left. image. Click for full size.

By Ray Gurganus, August 3, 2019

3. Chepstow Castle with Marten's Tower on the left.

Credits. This page was last revised on September 5, 2020. It was originally submitted on August 24, 2020, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 51 times since then. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on August 24, 2020, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.