Norwich is thought to date back to Anglo-Saxon times, and by 1004 had become a thriving centre for trade and commerce in the East of England, although during that same year the town was raided and burnt by Swein Forkbeard, a Viking from Denmark, who later ruled England for just 5 weeks before his death in 1014.
 The River Wensum, Norwich
The Norman Conquest in 1066, found Norwich one of the largest cities in England, with 25 churches and a population of between 5 and 10 thousand. The River Wensum was a useful resource as an export route to the North Sea, further adding to the popularity of Norwich as trade centre. |
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1067 was the year William the Conqueror ordered the build of Norwich Castle, for which around 98 Saxon homes were removed to make way for its structure. The first structure was made from timber motte-and-bailey. In 1100 the motte was made stronger and taller and the square keep (See photo on the right) was then built on top, made from Caen Limestone from Normandy, France. Once again the River Wensum provided the transport.
 Norwich Castle Museum
The face of the keep has been repaired and refaced many a time with the most current work performed in the 1830’s. Steeped in history, Norwich Castle has served as a Royal Palace in 1100 before becoming a Gaol in 1220. It became a prison in the 14th Century, and in 1895 Norwich Castle opened as a Museum, showcasing many of its original exhibits which can still be seen today. |
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In 1096 construction of the Norman Norwich Cathedral began, lead by Bishop Herbert de Losinga. Once again limestone from Caen, France was imported for its build. By the 15th century a 315ft spire (2nd tallest in England) had replaced its predecessor, which was destroyed in gales in 1362.
 Norwich Cathedral in winter
In the 14th Century, Norwich had completed construction of its city walls, around 2 and a half miles in length, much of the remains can still be found in today's modern city. |
