TimeRef - History Timelines - Colchester Castle

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» Places » Colchester Castle - [Castle] (TL 9980 2520)

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Colchester Castle is located on the exposed East coast of the country and was needed by William the Conqueror to defend against the invading Danes. At Colchester there were the remains of a large Roman camp and temple on which it was decided to build a new castle. Gundulf, the Bishop of Rochester took control of the construction as well as the White Tower in London and building work may have started in 1080. After the threat of invasion had reduced, the castle passed into the hands of Eudo de Rie, who was held the title of high steward. Successive stewards were granted the control of the castle until 1215 when an invasion force from France captured the castle. The French handed the castle back after the death of king John in 1216.

Mini Timeline

1080		Colchester castle begun
		To defend the esturies of Essex against attacks from the Danes William the Conqueror ordered the construction of a new castle at Colchester.
1091		Colchester Castle passes to Eudo
		Once the threat from invasion had reduced, the castle was passed into the control of Eudo de Rie, who held the position of high steward.
1215		Colchester Castle occupied by the French
		An invasion force from France under direction of Philippe II, the king of France captured Colchester Castle. Their objective was to help the cause of the Baron's against king John.