Prof Michael Livingstone investigates Richard the Lionheart's medieval super fortress.
At the end of the 12th century, tensions between England and France were growing. The two kings, the ambitious Philippe II of France and the warrior Richard the Lionheart of England, had once been great allies but now were sworn enemies, each determined to destroy the other.
On the frontline of the conflict was a brand new English castle built on French soil, mighty Chateau Gaillard. Today, it stands in ruins, but it remains an impressive bastion dominating the landscape. This wasn’t just an English castle. It was a statement of military intent and an engineering marvel - a memorial in stone to the Lionheart.
How was it built? History Hit goes to the extraordinary castle building project at Guedelon to find out how to make a fortress.
Michael digs into the dramatic history of Chateau Gaillard, exploring what happened during the bloody siege that took place here. Why was Chateau Gaillard so important that Richard himself referred to it as his fair castle upon the rock?
Up Next in Medieval
-
The English Parish Church: An Introdu...
In this introduction to the English Parish Church, Alice Loxton travels across the country to uncover some gems of England’s heritage. From the whitewashing of the Reformation to Wesley’s hymns to William Morris’ efforts to preserve the past, there is lots to discover. And Alice is joined around ...
-
Finding the Lost Battlefield of Bruna...
The Battle of Brunanburh was one of the bloodiest and biggest battles of early medieval history. Fought 1100 years ago, Athelstan - the king of the English - opposed a coalition of Irish, Scots, Northumbrians and Vikings and won a decisive victory. The enemy shield wall was penetrated. Their troo...
-
Temple Church and William the Marshal
Just east of where the Strand turns into Fleet Street in London, there is a small stone archway. Walking through it, one stumbles across a hidden world – one that is leafy, serene and historic. Most of the people who wind their way here don’t realise that the whole area was actually the stronghol...
9 Comments