Northumbrian Gunner: Newcastle

Newcastle
Castle Keep

The Castle in Newcastle stands on a steep sided promontory overlooking the River Tyne. There is archaeological evidence that the site has been occupied for nearly 200 years.

The Roman name for Newcastle was Pons Aelius. The name is derived from Pons, Latin for bridge, and the family name of Emperor Hadrian, Aelius. There was a Roman fort on the site from the 2nd to 5th Century.

Pons Aelius
Roman Fort

The Norman New Castle was built in 1080 by Robert Curthose, eldest son of William the Conqueror. It was possibly a motte and bailey castle, a mound with a ditch surrounding it.

New Castle
Norman Castle 1080

The stone castle was constructed between 1168 and 1178 during the reign of Henry II, along with castles at Bamburgh, Norham and Prudhoe.

Medieval Castle

The castle consisted of the main tower, the keep, a curtain wall, two gates (Bailey Gate and North Gate), and at least one postern (concealed entrance).

Castle early 13th century

The final development of the Castles fortifications took place between 1247 and 1250 with the completion of the Barbican. This was a tower with a narrow approach which included a turning-bridge, gates and a portcullis. The gate would become known as the Black Gate.

Newcastle Barbican

Newcastle Barbican - Black Gate
Turning Bridge and Entrance Gate

Newcastle
Through the Black Gate into the Castle

The Castle Keep was the principal strongpoint of the castle. It also served as the residence of the Constable and the centre for administration and justice.

Newcastle Castle Keep

Newcastle Castle Keep
Cross Section

Newcastle Castle Keep
Queens Chamber

Newcastle Castle Keep
Chapel

Newcastle Castle Keep
Great Hall

Encircling the Castle Keep , within the walls, is a narrow gallery with arrow slots and narrow windows which allowed archers to engage the enemy whilst protecting them