Lincoln Castle

Lincolnshire, England
England

Castle in eastern England built by 11th-century Norman invaders

Key Information

Construction

11–13th century

Castle Type

Keep and bailey

Current Status

Substantially intact

Historical Overview

Lincoln Castle is a major medieval castle constructed in Lincoln, England, during the late 11th century by William the Conqueror on the site of a pre-existing Roman fortress. The castle is unusual in that it has two mottes. It is one of only two such castles in the country, the other being at Lewes in East Sussex. Lincoln Castle remained in use as a prison and court into modern times and is one of the better preserved castles in England; the Crown Courts continue to this day. The castle is open to the public most days of the week and possible to walk around the walls from which there are views of the castle complex, cathedral, the city, and surrounding countryside. Displayed within the castle is one of only four surviving exemplars of the 1215 issue of Magna Carta. The castle is now owned by Lincolnshire County Council and is a scheduled monument.

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