Table of Contents
What was Dover Castle used for?
Dover Castle in the Second World War. In 1940, Dover Castle’s network of top secret tunnels became the headquarters for the dramatic rescue of British and allied troops during the Evacuation of Dunkirk. Venture into the very same tunnels for a multi-sensory tour bringing this story to life.
What features does Dover Castle have?
The chalk of Castle Hill has been shaped and reshaped over the centuries into massive earthworks, ditches and mounds. Imposing walls and towers have been raised and networks of tunnels excavated beneath them.
Was Dover Castle attacked?
Dover Castle, located in the southern county of Kent, is one of the largest castles in England and one of the first to have concentric defensive walls. Despite its fine defences, the castle did not put off attackers and was famously, if ultimately unsuccessfully, besieged in 1216 CE by Prince Louis of France.
How was Dover Castle attacked?
They would then be faced by a moat and a steep bank with a high wall. To enter the castle the attackers could either climb the walls or try to get through the castle gates. People attacking Dover Castle had to climb over two circular high walls to get to the Keep.
Does Dover Castle have a dungeon?
The castle may not have dungeons but these tunnels with their iron-studded doors and gothic arches are dark and atmospheric. The medieval tunnels were extended during the Napoleonic Wars in the eighteenth century. The tunnels and Hellfire Corner is what makes Dover Castle truly unique.
What did the Romans call Dover?
DUBRIS
Roman Dover, the British port closest to the rest of the Roman Empire was a thriving town, thought to have covered at least a five hectare area along the Dour valley. The Romans called the town DUBRIS after DUBRAS, the British name meaning ‘waters’.
Was Dover Castle ever attacked?
What was the purpose of the tunnels at Dover Castle?
A series of tunnels were constructed as a garrison for troops during the Napoleonic Wars. About 2000 used the underground barracks. During World War 2, the tunnels were used as air-raid shelters and then as a secret command centre and military hospital.
What to see and do at Dover Castle?
Impressive though the castle and its history are, there is much more to see and do at Dover Castle. From its role in the defence of Britain during World War II to the Roman lighthouse and St Mary in Castro church there is plenty to see and do to keep you busy all day. The Romans erected a pharos, or lighthouse, inside their fort in about 125AD.
When was the castle of Dover first founded?
First Barons’ War. Dover Castle is a medieval castle in Dover, Kent, England. It was founded in the 11th century and has been described as the “Key to England” due to its defensive significance throughout history.
What kind of material was Dover Castle made out of?
The site also contains one of Dover’s two Roman lighthouses (or pharoses), one of only three surviving Roman-era lighthouses in the world, and the most complete standing Roman structure in England. Built in the early 2nd century, the 5-level 8-sided tower was made of layers of tufa, Kentish ragstone, and red bricks.