Ely Castle facts for kids

Ely Castle was an old castle located in the city of Ely in Cambridgeshire, England. Today, you can still see a large mound of earth near the cathedral, which is believed to be where the castle once stood. This mound is now called Cherry Hill.

The Story of Ely Castle

Ely Castle was a type of castle known as a motte and bailey. This means it had a large mound (the motte) with a tower on top, and a walled courtyard (the bailey) below.

Built by William the Conqueror

The castle was first built in 1070 by William I, also known as William the Conqueror. He built it during a conflict with a famous English rebel named Hereward the Wake. William wanted to take control of the Isle of Ely, which was a difficult area to conquer because it was surrounded by marshlands. Once William had control of Ely, the castle was no longer needed and was left empty.

Rebuilt and Fought Over

However, the castle was used again in 1140 during a period of civil war in England called the Anarchy. Bishop Nigel rebuilt and strengthened the castle. But he soon had to give it up to King Stephen. In 1143, a powerful lord named Geoffrey de Mandeville was put in charge of the castle.

Later, in 1216, it is believed that a castle in Ely was captured and destroyed by a military leader named Falkes de Breauté. About 50 years later, during another conflict called the Second Barons' War, Ely and its defenses were taken in 1268. It's thought that the castle Bishop Nigel had rebuilt was pulled down not long after this.

What We Know Today

Today, you won't see any stone walls or towers of Ely Castle. The only visible part is the large mound, Cherry Hill.

Discoveries from Excavations

In 2002, archaeologists dug up the site and found many interesting things. They uncovered lots of clay items, like jugs and bowls, which people would have used every day during the Norman period. They also found farming and hunting tools, including some made of bronze. Experts believe these tools date back to the time when England was transitioning from Viking to Norman rule after 1066.

A lot of clay was also found during the dig. This clay was often used to cover the surface of the motte, helping to protect it. Unfortunately, the local council didn't have enough money to continue the search, so the dig stopped in early 2003.

Where to See the Finds

The items found during the excavation are now kept at the Ely History Museum. You can visit the museum to see these important pieces of history and learn more about what life was like in Ely centuries ago!