Hastings Castle
 Castles |
The first stone construction that the Normans built following their invasion of England in 1066, Hastings Castle was built by Robert, Count of Eu between 1068 and 1080. Overlooking the town of Hastings, the castle has had an eventful history. It was there in 1201 that King John, during his struggle to keep hold of Normandy, declared England's domination over the seas. This was, however, somewhat of a hollow declaration given that in 1204 Normandy was lost. In 1216 John's inability to control the sea was exposed when he returned to the castle to ruin it in order to deny the French a base in the south of England. Although the castle was restored during Henry III's reign (1207-1272), the erosion of the coast by the sea destroyed the cliff upon which it was built, so much so that by the 16th century the castle once again stood in ruins. Only that part remained which can be seen today.
The ruins, nevertheless, still provide a spectacular vantage point from which great views can be gained of the Old Town of Hastings and the coast.