Gravesend Blockhouse, Military fortification in Gravesend, England
The D-shaped brick and stone structure features a circular bastion overlooking the River Thames with gun platforms extending toward east and west points.
King Henry VIII ordered the construction of this artillery fortification in 1539 as part of the Device plan to protect England from French invasion.
The blockhouse stands as a testament to England's first coordinated river defense system, representing Tudor military engineering and strategic planning methods.
Archaeological remains of the blockhouse are located near the former Clarendon Royal Hotel, with foundations visible as a scheduled ancient monument.
The structure stored thousands of barrels of gunpowder in the early 18th century, transforming from an active defense point into a major Thames ammunition depot.
GPS coordinates: 51.44463,0.37277
Latest update: March 21, 2025 10:45
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