Coventry city walls, Medieval defense walls in Coventry, England
Coventry city walls are medieval fortifications made of red sandstone that once stretched around the city, reinforced with towers and defensive gates. Today two original gates survive from this period: Swanswell Gate and Cook Street Gate, both protected as Grade I listed structures.
Construction began in 1356 when Mayor Richard de Stoke laid the first stone, taking nearly two centuries to complete in 1534. In the 17th century King Charles II had sections demolished as punishment for the city's support of Parliament during the Civil War.
The remaining gates like Swanswell and Cook Street reflect how medieval Coventry controlled trade and movement through its center. These passages shaped the rhythm of city life and remain visible reminders of how the walls organized daily activity.
Both surviving gates can be explored on foot and are easily reached from the city center, as they sit at prominent locations. It helps to plan your route in advance since the remains are spread across different parts of the historic core.
A large section of the walls was destroyed by 500 soldiers under the Earl of Northampton following King Charles II's orders in 1662. This stands as one of the harshest punishments ever inflicted on an English city for its political choices.
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