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Location, location, location! |
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Castles were originally built to protect conquered territory and act as a strategic stronghold.
In Dover's case the fortress has been of particular importance for over 2000 years. This is mainly because of its strategic position, in defending the southeast coast against attacks from European powers.
The Romans built an 80ft lighthouse on the site of an Iron Age fort to guide their vessels in. Then in the 11th Century William the Conqueror reinforced the castle just after the Battle of Hastings.
After this period, Norman leaders built sturdy stone castles over the temporary structures erected to maintain control over Anglo-Saxons in key areas across the country. This led the way for elaborate castles being built, and others being extensively modified at great expense.
In the 12th Century, Henry II modified the Castle - many of the changes are still visible today.
The King introduced a keep to Dover Castle, the largest in Britain, standing at 83ft tall. Keeps were the great towers of the fort, which served various purposes, from accommodation to dungeons. The keeps also served as the last point of defence.
His grandson, Henry III made alterations too.
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