About Corfe Castle
Corfe Castle, located in Dorset, England, is a historic fortification with a rich and fascinating past. Built shortly after the Norman conquest of 1066, it was one of the earliest castles in England to incorporate stone in its construction, a significant departure from the earth and timber structures of the time. The castle's strategic position in the Purbeck Hills made it a vital stronghold for defending links to the Norman heartlands across the Channel.
Over the centuries, Corfe Castle underwent major structural changes, particularly in the 12th and 13th centuries. It played a significant role during the English Civil War, serving as one of the last royalist strongholds in southern England before falling to Parliamentarian forces in 1645. The castle was partially demolished on Parliament's orders, leaving the dramatic ruins that stand today.
Owned by the National Trust, Corfe Castle is now open to the public and is protected as a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Monument. Its picturesque ruins attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into England's medieval history.
Refereces
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- National Trust: The history of Corfe Castle
- Wikipedia: Corfe Castle
- Corfe Castle: Visit Corfe Castle, Dorset