Kingsgate, Winchester facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kingsgate, Winchester |
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Kingsgate with St Swithun-upon-Kingsgate Church above, entered by staircase on right
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| Location | Winchester |
| OS grid reference | SU 48144 29092 |
| Area | Hampshire |
| Built | 14th century |
| Architectural style(s) | Medieval |
| Official name: The King's Gate, Winchester | |
| Reference no. | 1001938 |
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Kingsgate is a very old and important gate in the city of Winchester, England. It is one of only two medieval gates that are still standing today. The other one is called the Westgate. The name Kingsgate was first written down in 1148.
This gate is built on or very close to where an old Roman gate once stood. It used to be the main entrance to the royal palace. This was before the area around Winchester Cathedral was closed off in the 900s. The gate you see now was probably built in the 1300s. Later, in the 1700s, special paths for people to walk through were added.
Exploring Winchester's Kingsgate
Kingsgate is more than just an old entrance. It's a piece of history that tells us about Winchester's past. Imagine kings and queens passing through this very spot centuries ago! It shows how important Winchester was as a city long ago.
St Swithun's Church: A Unique Building
Right above Kingsgate, there is a small church called St Swithun-upon-Kingsgate Church. This church was built during the Middle Ages. It was designed in a style known as Early English. What makes it special is that it's actually part of the old Winchester city walls.
The church first appeared in records from the 1200s. It even became famous in a book! A writer named Anthony Trollope wrote about it in his novel The Warden. In the book, he called it "St Cuthbert's."
Protecting Our History
Kingsgate is officially recognized as a scheduled monument. This means it's a very important historical site that is protected by law. It helps make sure that this ancient gate will be preserved for many more years.
St Swithun's Church is also protected. It is a Grade I listed building. This is the highest level of protection for historic buildings in England. It means the church is considered to be of exceptional interest.
