When one thinks of English castles, towering battlements, regal history, and medieval grandeur come to mind. While many know of iconic castles like Windsor or Dover, fewer realize that the oldest castle in England lies in the town of Colchester, Essex. This ancient fortress, Colchester Castle, predates the more famous castles by several years and is deeply tied to both Roman and Norman history.
A Castle Built on Roman Foundations
Colchester Castle was constructed between 1068 and 1076, making it the earliest stone castle built after the Norman Conquest of 1066. Commissioned by William the Conqueror, the castle was built under the supervision of Gundulf of Rochester, a renowned monk-architect. What makes Colchester Castle especially significant is that it was built directly on the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, a massive temple from the 1st century AD when Colchester (then called Camulodunum) was the first Roman capital of Britain.
The Normans often built on Roman sites to emphasize their dominance and to utilize already-strong foundations. In the case of Colchester Castle, the Roman podium provided an ideal base for the keep, and some of the Roman materials were even reused in the construction of the walls.
A Remarkable Norman Keep
Colchester Castle’s keep is one of the largest ever built in Europe. It is roughly one and a half times larger than the White Tower at the Tower of London, which was built around the same time. The keep was initially surrounded by a defensive ditch and later included a curtain wall and gatehouses, typical of Norman military architecture.
Though it was originally a royal fortress, Colchester Castle later served many purposes: a stronghold during periods of conflict, a county prison, and eventually a museum.
From Fortress to Museum
In the 18th century, the castle was in danger of being demolished, but it was saved and preserved. Today, Colchester Castle is a thriving museum, housing a wide range of archaeological finds from both Roman and medieval times. Visitors can explore the Roman vaults, climb to the castle roof, and engage with interactive exhibits that tell the story of over 2,000 years of local history.
Why Colchester Castle Matters
Colchester Castle is not only England’s oldest surviving Norman castle but also a symbol of continuity. From its Roman origins through to its Norman transformation and its current role as a cultural site, the castle encapsulates centuries of English history in one building. Its layered past reflects the waves of conquest and change that have shaped the nation.
Did You Know?
-
The Roman Temple of Claudius beneath the castle was likely targeted by Queen Boudica during her rebellion against Roman rule in AD 60–61.
-
Colchester claims to be the oldest recorded town in Britain.