Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle

Origins

William the Conqueror’s Vision:

  • Following his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, William the Conqueror recognized the strategic importance of the location.
  • Around 1070, he initiated the construction of Windsor Castle.
  • It was part of a defensive ring of motte-and-bailey castles built around London to secure Norman control.
  • The location was chosen for its commanding position overlooking the River Thames and its proximity to a royal hunting forest.
  • Early Structure:
    • The initial castle was a relatively simple structure, primarily built for defense.
    • It consisted of a wooden keep on a man-made mound (motte) and a surrounding enclosure (bailey).
  • Strategic Importance:
    • Windsor’s location was crucial for guarding the western approaches to London.
    • Its proximity to the Thames allowed for easy access and transportation.
    • The surrounding forest provided a valuable resource and hunting grounds.
  • Progression:
    • It is important to understand that the castle has been added to, and rebuilt, over many centuries. So the original wooden structure, has been replaced, and expanded, many times over.

Later Residents

Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for over 900 years, and many monarchs have left their mark on it. Here’s a glimpse into its subsequent residents and key events:

  • Henry I:
    • He began to strengthen the castle, replacing the wooden keep with a stone one.
  • Henry II:
    • He continued the development, investing heavily in the castle’s defenses.
  • Henry III:
    • He transformed Windsor into a luxurious royal residence, building a grand royal palace within the castle walls.
  • Edward III:
    • He was born at Windsor and had a strong connection to the castle.
    • He oversaw a massive rebuilding program, transforming the castle into a magnificent Gothic palace.
    • He also established the Order of the Garter at Windsor.
  • Henry VIII:
    • He used Windsor as a royal retreat and hunting lodge.
    • He is buried in St. George’s Chapel within the castle grounds.
  • Elizabeth I:
    • She spent time at Windsor, particularly during periods of plague in London.
  • Charles I:
    • He was imprisoned at Windsor before his execution in 1649.
  • The Interregnum (Oliver Cromwell):
    • During the English Civil War and the Commonwealth period, Windsor was used as a military headquarters and prison.
  • Charles II:
    • He restored the castle after the Restoration, bringing back its royal splendor.
  • George III:
    • He spent considerable time at Windsor and was known to favor the castle.
  • Queen Victoria:
    • She and Prince Albert made Windsor a family home.
    • Prince Albert’s death in 1861 led Queen Victoria to spend much of her widowhood at Windsor.
  • 20th and 21st Centuries:
    • Windsor Castle has continued to be a significant royal residence.
    • It has been used for state occasions, official visits, and private family events.
    • A large fire damaged a portion of the castle in 1992, and a large restoration project was then undertaken.
    • Queen Elizabeth II spent much of her time at Windsor Castle, especially in her later years.

Throughout its history, Windsor Castle has been a witness to significant moments in English and British history, serving as a fortress, a palace, and a royal home.

Sieges

Windsor Castle has notably withstood sieges, particularly during the First Barons’ War.1 Here’s a key instance:

  • The Siege of 1216:
    • During the First Barons’ War, in 1216, Windsor Castle was besieged by baronial and French forces led by the Count of Nevers.2
    • Despite a prolonged siege, the castle’s defenders, under the command of John’s constable, Engelard de Cigogné, successfully held out.3
    • This defense was a significant moment in the castle’s history, demonstrating its strength and strategic importance.

Therefore, the castle was notably defended against the baronial and french forces during the first Barons war.

Forceful Changes of Resident

Windsor Castle’s history is marked by successful defenses, but it has also experienced periods where its control changed hands, particularly during the English Civil War. Here’s a key point:

  • English Civil War:
    • During the English Civil War (1642-1651), Windsor Castle was seized by Parliamentarian forces from King Charles I.
    • It became a Parliamentarian garrison and played a significant role in their war effort.
    • Therefore, during this period, the castle was effectively overcome and taken, not by a traditional siege culminating in a storming of the walls, but by the shifting tides of political and military power.

So, while Windsor Castle has a strong record of withstanding direct military assaults, it did fall under the control of Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War.

When Were Wings and Outbuildings added?

Windsor Castle’s architectural evolution spans centuries, with various monarchs contributing to its diverse wings and outbuildings. Here’s a general overview of key periods and additions:

  • Early Norman Period (11th-12th Centuries):
    • William the Conqueror established the initial motte-and-bailey structure.
    • Henry II replaced wooden defenses with stone, including the Round Tower’s early form.
  • Henry III (13th Century):
    • Significant rebuilding, including royal apartments and a chapel, transforming the castle into a more luxurious residence.
    • Construction of stone walls in the lower ward.
  • Edward III (14th Century):
    • A major transformation into a Gothic palace.
    • Extensive reconstruction of the Upper Ward, including royal apartments and state rooms.
    • This period saw the creation of much of the castle’s grand appearance.
  • Tudor Period (15th-16th Centuries):
    • Henry VIII added the gate bearing his name and the North Terrace.
    • Elizabeth I made repairs and added a long gallery.
  • Later Periods:
    • Charles II restored the castle after the Interregnum.
    • George III and Queen Victoria made further alterations and additions, adapting the castle to changing needs.
    • The 19th century saw remodelling of the Round Tower.
    • The late 20th century saw major restoration work after the 1992 fire, including the rebuilding of St. George’s Hall.

Key points to remember:

  • Windsor Castle’s development is a continuous process, with each era leaving its mark.
  • The castle’s function has shifted over time, from a defensive fortress to a royal residence and state venue.
  • St. Georges Chapel was constructed in the late 15th century.

What is the Modern Role of the Castle?

Windsor Castle continues to play a vital and multifaceted role in modern British life. Here’s a summary of its key functions.

Royal Residence:

  • It remains an official residence of the monarch.
  • It is frequently used for both state occasions and private weekends.
  • Queen Elizabeth II spent a significant portion of her time at Windsor, particularly in her later years.
  • State Occasions:
    • The castle is a venue for state visits, hosting foreign dignitaries and heads of state.
    • It is used for investitures and other ceremonial events.
    • State banquets are held in the grand State Apartments.
  • National Symbol:
    • Windsor Castle is a powerful symbol of the British monarchy and national history.
    • It attracts visitors from around the world, contributing to tourism.
    • It is used for important national events, such as royal weddings, and funerals.
  • Tourist Attraction:
    • Large portions of the castle are open to the public, allowing visitors to experience its history and grandeur.
    • St. George’s Chapel is a major attraction, housing the tombs of numerous monarchs.
  • Military Connections:
    • The castle maintains its connections to the military, particularly through the Household Cavalry.
    • The location of many military ceremonies.
  • Community Role:
    • The castle and its surrounding parklands are a vital part of the local community.
    • It is used for various community events and celebrations.

In essence, Windsor Castle seamlessly blends its historical significance with its contemporary functions, serving as a working royal residence, a venue for state events, and a cherished national landmark.