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
-
Unpacking the Myths of King Arthur wi...
King Arthur. Merlin. The Knights of the Round Table and the Sword in the Stone. We think we know these stories but they've changed a lot since they were first told...
In this episode of History Hit's After Dark podcast, Maddy and Anthony are joined by Dr. Eleanor Janega, host of the Gone Mediev...
-
Pinches of Salt and Gold: Uncovering ...
Documentary telling the story of Mansa Musa, the famous 14th century ruler of Mali, renowned for his great wealth. Featuring Professor Amira Bennison, Boubacar Diallo, Hadrien Collet, Mauro Nobili and Madina Thiam.
-
Britain's Wild West: Discovering Hay ...
The peaceful South Wales town of Hay-on-Wye offers few clues today of its brutal past on a violent frontier. A monument to this history can be found in Hay Castle. Once right on the border between England and Wales, it sits in a region densely packed with castles that saw border skirmishes and bi...
9 Comments