Middleton Mount facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Middleton Mount |
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| Norfolk, England | |
Middleton Mount
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 Middleton Mount
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| Coordinates | 52°43′11″N 0°27′23″E / 52.7198°N 0.4563°E |
| Type | Motte and bailey |
| Site information | |
| Owner | Norfolk Archaeological Trust |
| Condition | Earthworks only survive |
Middleton Mount, also known as Middleton Motte or Middleton Castle, is what's left of a medieval castle. You can find it in the village of Middleton, in Norfolk, England. It's a cool historical site to explore!
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Middleton Mount: A Norman Castle
Middleton Mount was a special type of castle called a motte and bailey castle. It was built a long, long time ago during the Norman period. This was after the Normans came to England in 1066.
The main part of the castle, called the motte, was a big mound of earth. It was about 49 meters (160 feet) wide. A wide ditch, 11 meters (36 feet) across, helped protect it. Next to the motte was a crescent-shaped area called the bailey. This area often held buildings like halls or stables. There were also three other rectangular areas nearby. We aren't sure exactly what these were used for in medieval times.
What is a Motte and Bailey Castle?
A motte and bailey castle was a common type of castle built after the Norman Conquest. It had two main parts:
- A motte was a large, artificial mound of earth. A wooden tower or keep was often built on top. This gave defenders a high, safe place.
- A bailey was a courtyard area next to the motte. It was usually surrounded by a wooden fence or a wall. This area would hold buildings like kitchens, stables, and homes for soldiers.
These castles were quick to build. They were often the first castles put up by the Normans to control new lands.
History of the Castle
The Normans built Middleton Mount on a site that was already important. Before they arrived, it was an Anglo-Saxon estate center. This was a common thing for the Normans to do. They would take over existing important places to show their power.
The castle was a key part of the Norman plan to control England. It helped them keep an eye on the local area.
Uncovering the Past: Excavations
In 1987, archaeologists carefully dug up parts of the site. This happened before new houses were built nearby. These excavations helped us learn more about the castle. They found clues about how people lived there long ago.
Protecting Middleton Mount Today
Today, Middleton Mount is an important historical site. In 2006, the Norfolk Archaeological Trust bought the castle. They work hard to protect it. It is now a "scheduled monument." This means it's a nationally important historical site that is legally protected.
The Trust also makes sure that people can visit and explore the castle. It's a great place to imagine what life was like in medieval times!
