Bolbec Castle, Medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Whitchurch, England.
Bolbec Castle is a medieval motte-and-bailey fortress near Whitchurch consisting of earthwork remains with a triangular layout and noticeable elevation changes across the site. The southern section contains the larger enclosed area while the northern mound rises more steeply, with distinct features separated by the natural topography.
Hugh II de Bolbec built this fortress in the mid-12th century without royal permission during a period of local power struggles. Church authorities criticized the unauthorized construction, reflecting tensions between local noble rule and higher authority.
The site reveals how medieval lords expressed their authority through fortified structures and what defensive layouts were common in that era. The arrangement of earthworks reflects the military planning typical of 12th century England.
The site sits west of St John's Church and is easily reached on foot; modern Castle Lane divides the main sections of the remains. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the uneven earthworks and ditches make the ground challenging to walk across.
Archaeological digs in the 1970s uncovered the structure of medieval ditches and revealed detailed soil layers beneath the surface. These investigations provided clues about how the fortification was constructed and maintained over time.
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