Leicester, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
Castle Motte
Medieval Leicester
— Story of Leicester —
Photographed By Ray Gurganus, April 14, 2024
1. Castle Motte Marker
Leicester's first castle was built on the orders of William the Conqueror soon after the Nonman conquest of England in 1066. It dominated ____ town of about 400 houses and controlled the river crossing, taking advantage of the ____ Roman walls to complete the town's protection. The first keeper of the castle ____ Grentesmesnil, a Norman nobleman from France.
What would Leicester Castle have looked like in 1068?
In 1068 the Castle would have consisted of an earth mound (or motte) with a timber tower (or keep) on top and a large enclosure below it (bailey) containing timber buildings. The Castle motte was much taller when first constructed and is all that now remains of Leicester's earliest castle. It formed the Castle's last line of defence. The bailey would have been defended by a rampart and contained a hall, church, armoury, stables and a kitchen.
The Motte in recent times
In the 19th Century the motto was lowered to form a bowling green for the Castle (now also gone).
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1066 CE.
Location. 52° 37.915′ N, 1° 8.47′ W. Marker is in Leicester, England. Marker can be reached from Castle View.
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Leicester Castle (a few steps from this marker); Siege of Leicester 1173 (about 120 meters away, measured in a direct line); Portland and Hawthorn Buildings (about 120 meters away); Church of the Annunciation (about 120 meters away); This Stone (about 150 meters away); The Collegiate Church (about 150 meters away); The Whipping Toms (about 150 meters away); Municipal Technical & Art Schools (about 150 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Leicester.
Photographed By Ray Gurganus, April 14, 2024
2. Castle Motte Area
Credits. This page was last revised on May 20, 2024. It was originally submitted on May 18, 2024, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 34 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 18, 2024, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
