Views from the top of Lewes Castle, England
I was lucky to catch a spectacular double rainbow shimmering over the Sussex Downs when climbing to the top of Lewes castle.
Lewes castle was one of the first Norman fortresses. It was built in 1069 by William de Warrene, the son-in-law of William the Conqueror.
This imposing motte and bailey castle was designed to show the power of the new Norman rulers. It would probably have been whitewashed, and therefore highly visible for miles - a reminder to any resisting Anglo Saxons about who was in charge!
In 1294 the Battle of Lewes was fought just outside its walls, where the rebel baron Simon de Montfort defeated the forces of King Henry. It was a bloody battle, but despite being outnumbered, de Montfort won the day, and King Henry "was much beaten with swords and maces".
In 1377 the castle was besieged by the French, and the town sacked. In 1382 the castle was damaged and plundered during a riot.
The castle finally fell into disuse in 1620, when its defences became too outdated for military purposes. About half of the castle was pulled down for its strong stone.
If you happen to be in the South of England, try to check out Lewes. Its a fantastic little town full of winding alleys, wonderful independent shops, pubs, and cafes, and has a very unique vibe, as well as loads of cool history!
Thanks for the history background on Lewes Castel. Where does the name Lewes come from? Is it an Anglo-Saxon name?
If you like history, see my history ARTICLE for today.
One theory has it that the name Lewes comes from the plural form of Anglo-Saxon "Hlaew", which means "hill". This refers to the hills of the South Downs or ancient burial mounds in the area; but A Dictionary of British Place Names says that it derives "From the Old English word lǣw - ‘wound, incision’ - here used in a topographical sense ‘gap’."
Thanks for the explanation. I have notice that the spelling differs from the surname "Lewis" - which I think is Scottish (not sure) - and therefore could not be named after someone famous.
Please keep on posting these photos and information about English history. I am not in England and cannot visit it when I want.