Stafford Castle, The Inner Bailey. Built Circa 1100AD The Norman's. Commissioned by Robert of Stafford.

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This prominent vantage point and strategic site was quickly recognised by the Normans, who built a huge timber fortress here by 1100 AD. Originally built by Robert de Toeni, (later known as Robert of Stafford), in the Norman period, Stafford Castle has dominated the local skyline for over 900 years. In the years shortly after the Norman invasion of 1066, William the Conqueror is believed to have ordered defences to be built against a still hostile and rebellious native community. The fortunes of the castle and its owners, the Stafford family, fluctuated greatly. An impressive example of the motte and bailey system, Stafford Castle enjoyed mixed fortunes throughout the medieval period. In the 14th century Ralph, a founder member of the Order of the Garter, became the1st Earl of Stafford. He ordered the building of a stone keep on top of the motte in 1347 and the following year was granted a licence to crenellate and so constructed the battlements.

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Size: 7360px × 4912px
Location: Stafford Castle, Newport Road, Stafford, ST16 1DJ
Photo credit: © Selena Sheridan / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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