Rochester Castle

Located near the ancient home of the Romans, Rochester Castle towers over the city of the same name. The equally impressive Rochester Cathedral stands at the base of the castle, another architectural gem of this small but historically rich southeastern city.

Strategic Importance

Rochester Castle itself was built on the site where the Romans originally settled in the city. The site was of tactical importance as it was at the junction of the River Medway and the famous Roman Watling Street, and it is not hard to see why the Normans chose to use it as the site of a fortress. Before the arrival of the Normans, castles were virtually unknown in England. Since that time, the need to hold territories began, which led to the construction of equally impressive fortifications throughout the country.

Building a castle

In 1087, Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester, began building the castle. One of the greatest architects of William the Conqueror, he was also responsible for the Tower of London. Much of what you see remains of the walled perimeter from that time. William de Corbeil, Archbishop of Canterbury, also contributed to this grand castle building project. Henry I granted him custody of the castle in 1127, a responsibility that continued until King John took over the castle in 1215.

Battle site

During the Barons' War of 1264, another battle took place at Rochester Castle, this time between Henry III and Simon de Montfort. The castle came under fire from the rebel armies. Roger de Laybourne, the leader of the castle's defense, was forced to return to the fortress after twenty-four hours of fighting. It all ended with the approach of the army under the command of the king. Renovation was required, which began only after 100 years.

Modern grandeur

Rochester Castle occupies a place of honor among the Norman buildings and nowadays attracts tourists from everywhere. A special place is occupied by Rochester Cathedral, the second oldest cathedral in the country, a spiritual monument of Christian culture. From the side of the cathedral, the impressive building of the castle makes a grand impression.