Dover Castle

From my visit in August 2005.

Dover Castle is situated in Kent and has been described as the "Key to England" due to its defensive significance throughout history. Originally fortified (earthworks) by native Britons before the Romans invaded in AD43, It was built near the site of an 80 foot (24 m) high Roman lighthouse (or Pharos), which still survives. Immediately next to the Pharos is the Anglo-Saxon church of St. Mary-in-Castro, which is about 1000 years old. It was placed in that spot so that it could use the Pharos as a bell-tower.

The first castle was probably a Saxon fort, but after the Battle of Hastings, William the Conqueror improved the fortifications, building a motte and bailey design castle.

The castle, secret tunnels and surrounding land are now owned by English Heritage and the site is a major tourist attraction. The Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports is officially head of the castle, in his conjoint position of Constable of Dover Castle.