Lewes Castle

Erected on the highest point in the city of Lewes, dominating the high hill above the village, is the historical castle of the same name. When you see this ancient fortress, immediately your mind will emerge with a scene from a film about a chivalrous combat.

The medieval Palace Lewes is located high above the valley of the Ouse, on the edge of the picturesque southern region of the South Downs in the English area of East Sussex.

Originally the site of today's ruins was a blockhouse. A little later it was replaced by a stone building, which is one out of the two similar castles which is still preserved in the territory of England. The other is the castle Lincoln, a total of two massive forts that were built on two natural hills.

When William the Conqueror returned to Normandy in 1067, it became part of his possessions, including the town of Lewes from one of his loyal lords, William de Warenne. Within several years, Warenne was able to build a strong and stable construction of the castle in Lewes with the whole palace being surrounded by a moat and rampart.

The newly built Palace Lewes became the main dwelling of Warenne, although he took the credit for construction of two others. The castle in Surrey and Norfolk was also his. In 1075 the King decided to appoint his faithful follower as the first Earl of Surrey.

About 150 years later after the construction of the stone fortress the mounds were added and the two towers. The entrance tower was located at the foot of the mound.