Cirencester Castle facts for kids
Cirencester Castle was a historic castle located in the town of Cirencester in Gloucestershire, England. It played a small but interesting part in England's early history.
Building Cirencester Castle
Cirencester Castle was first built in the 11th century. It was originally made from timber, which means wood. Later, in 1107, a strong square stone tower called a keep was added. A keep was the safest part of a castle, often used as a home or a final defense.
The castle was not very big or famous. It was mostly important for the local area around Cirencester.
The Castle During the Anarchy
In the 12th century, England went through a difficult time known as the Anarchy. This was a long civil war where different groups fought for control of the country.
During this time, Cirencester Castle became involved in the conflict. In the early years of the war, a powerful lord named Robert, Earl of Gloucester, took control of the castle. He was fighting for Empress Matilda, who believed she should be the queen of England.
However, in 1142, King Stephen launched a surprise attack. He managed to capture Cirencester Castle. After taking it, King Stephen ordered the castle to be set on fire.
What Happened Next?
After King Stephen burned the castle in 1142, historians disagree about its exact fate. Some historians from the 1800s believed the castle was rebuilt and used again in later conflicts. They thought it was even destroyed a second time by King Henry III.
However, other historians, like E. Fuller in 1890, argued that the castle was never rebuilt after King Stephen burned it in 1142. They believe its story ended there. Today, you can only see the site where the castle once stood.
