The Precinct in Rochester in Medway, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
The Siege of 1215
Photographed by Ray Gurganus, March 26, 2025
1. The Siege of 1215 Marker
During the civil war that broke out shortly after the Magna Carta in 1215, King John himself laid siege to Rochester Castle. It was defended by 100 knights and other ranks hostile to the King, who camped here, probably on Boley Hill, for more than seven weeks.
Five huge catapults were set up to pound the keep and outer walls with rocks. When this strategy proved ineffective, the King ordered his soldiers to dig a tunnel under the keep's southern tower, the one nearest you now.
This tunnel was held up with wooden props which were then burnt, bringing down a quarter of the entire keep. Despite this, the garrison did not surrender and had to starved out of the ruins.
Today you can see how the round shape of the rebuilt tower makes it stand out from its square companions.
Erected by English Heritage.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • Wars, Non-US. A significant historical year for this entry is 1215.
Location. 51° 23.327′ N, 0° 30.11′ E. Marker is in Rochester, England, in Medway. It is in The Precinct. It is at the intersection of Boley Hill and St. Margaret's
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Greater South East. Globally, it is on the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region, in Europe, in Atlantic Europe, on one of the British Isles, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Roman Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Justice Tree (a few steps from this marker); Site of Henry III Gate (within shouting distance of this marker); John Fisher (within shouting distance of this marker); The Castle Walls & Defences (within shouting distance of this marker); Inside the Keep (within shouting distance of this marker); Rochester Riverside (within shouting distance of this marker); Site of the Saxon Cathedral (within shouting distance of this marker); Monastic Refectory Doorway (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Rochester.
Photographed by Ray Gurganus, March 26, 2025
2. Rochester Castle
Credits. This page was last revised on May 19, 2025. It was originally submitted on April 30, 2025, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 153 times since then and 40 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 30, 2025, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
