Why is Windsor Castle one of the most iconic and historic royal residences in the world? Windsor Castle stands as the oldest inhabited castle globally, with origins tracing back to the 11th century. Built by William the Conqueror, it has housed 39 monarchs, including Henry I and Queen Elizabeth II. Its strategic location on the River Thames and architectural evolution from a motte-and-bailey to a grand palace make it a marvel. The castle's rich history includes royal burials, significant events, and even surviving a massive fire in 1992. With its impressive art collection, state apartments, and St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle remains a symbol of British monarchy and resilience.
Key Takeaways:
- Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world, with a history dating back to the late 11th century. It has been a royal residence for over 900 years, housing 39 monarchs and serving as a significant burial site for British royalty.
- The castle has withstood historical attacks, including a two-month siege during the Barons' War. It boasts impressive architectural evolution, from a motte-and-bailey structure to grand state apartments, and houses a priceless collection of historical art and manuscripts.
50 Facts About Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle stands as a testament to British history and architectural splendor. For over 900 years, it has been a symbol of the monarchy and a witness to countless historical events. Here are 50 fascinating facts about this iconic royal residence.
Oldest Inhabited Castle
Windsor Castle's history stretches back to the late 11th century, making it the oldest inhabited castle in the world.
- Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world, with its origins dating back to the late 11th century when William the Conqueror built it as an indestructible fortress.
Strategic Location
The castle's location was chosen for its strategic importance, overseeing a crucial part of the River Thames.
- The castle was strategically built to project Norman dominance around London and to oversee a strategically important part of the River Thames.
Architectural Evolution
Windsor Castle has undergone significant architectural changes over the centuries, evolving from a motte-and-bailey structure to a grand royal residence.
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Originally designed as a motte-and-bailey, Windsor Castle featured three wards surrounding a central mound. Over time, it was gradually replaced with stone fortifications.
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Henry III built a luxurious royal palace within the castle, while Edward III rebuilt the palace to make it even grander.
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The state apartments were rebuilt by Charles II and later reconstructed by George IV for use by visitors of state.
Royal Residence
Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for centuries, housing numerous monarchs.
- Windsor Castle has been used as a royal residence since 1110 by Henry I, who was the fourth son of William the Conqueror. Since then, it has been the home of the British royal family, with no fewer than 39 monarchs residing there.
Royal Burials
The castle is also a significant burial site for British monarchs.
- More than 10 monarchs have been buried in Windsor Castle, including Charles I, Henry VIII, and Queen Elizabeth II. Charles I was beheaded at Whitehall Palace and interred in Henry VIII’s burial vault in St George’s Chapel.
Queen Mary’s Doll’s House
One of the castle's unique attractions is Queen Mary’s Doll’s House, a miniature mansion with incredible detail.
- Queen Mary’s Doll’s House is a miniature mansion built in the 1920s by architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll. This dollhouse features running water, electricity, working toilets, elevators, and a 1,200-piece wine cellar stocked with wine and beer.
Royal Family Name Change
The castle even influenced the royal family's name during a tumultuous time in history.
- The royal family’s former name was Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, which was problematic during World War I due to its German origins. In 1919, the royal family adopted the name Windsor, inspired by the castle itself.
Historical Attacks
Windsor Castle has withstood numerous attacks throughout its history.
- Windsor Castle has survived multiple attacks throughout its history, including a two-month siege during the Barons' War in the late 1200s. The castle’s defenses included murder holes in the Norman Gate archway, where attacking soldiers could be shot or bombarded with stones and boiling water.
St George’s Chapel
St George’s Chapel is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a significant site within the castle.
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St George’s Chapel, designed to be the chapel of the Order of the Garter, is one of the best examples of Perpendicular Gothic-style architecture. It was begun by Edward IV and completed in 1528.
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The chapel ranks next to Westminster Abbey as a royal mausoleum and contains the bodies of Henry VI, Edward IV, Henry VIII, and Jane Seymour, Charles I, Edward VII, and George V.
Albert Memorial Chapel
Another important chapel within the castle is the Albert Memorial Chapel.
- The Albert Memorial Chapel, built by Henry VII as a royal mausoleum, was restored by Queen Victoria and named in memory of her consort. In this chapel are buried George III, George IV, and William IV.
State Apartments
The state apartments are known for their lavish decorations and historical significance.
- The state apartments in the upper ward include the Waterloo Chamber, St George’s Hall, and the grand reception room. These rooms are known for their lavish furnishings and decorations, reflecting the Rococo, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
Royal Library
The castle houses a priceless collection of historical drawings and manuscripts.
- The upper ward also houses the royal library, which contains a priceless collection of drawings by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Hans Holbein the Younger, and other Old Masters.
Fire in 1992
A significant event in recent history was the devastating fire of 1992.
- A massive fire ripped through the castle in November 1992, starting in a private chapel and spreading to the northeast corner of the Upper Ward. The fire destroyed the Grand Reception Room and Saint George’s Hall but was eventually brought under control after 15 hours and 200 firefighters.
Restoration
The castle underwent extensive restoration following the fire.
- Thanks to extensive repairs, the affected areas were restored to their former glory by 1997. The restoration included rebuilding many of the damaged rooms and reinstalling the original furnishings and decorations.
Grounds and Layout
Windsor Castle's layout combines elements of a fortification, palace, and small town.
- Windsor Castle occupies 13 acres (5 hectares) of ground and combines the features of a fortification, a palace, and a small town. The castle is divided into two quadrilateral-shaped building complexes, or courts, separated by the Round Tower.
Round Tower
The Round Tower is a prominent feature of the castle, visible from miles away.
- The Round Tower is a massive circular tower built on an artificial mound and is visible for many miles over the surrounding flatland. It was built by Henry II and has been a central feature of the castle since then.
Lower Ward
The lower ward includes significant chapels and has hosted various royal events.
- The lower ward includes St George’s Chapel and the Albert Memorial Chapel. This area has been used for various royal ceremonies and events throughout history.
Upper Ward
The upper ward is home to the monarch's private apartments and lavish state rooms.
- The upper ward includes the private apartments of the monarch and private apartments for visitors. This area is known for its lavish state apartments and royal library.
Changing of the Guard
A popular tradition at Windsor Castle is the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Windsor Castle has a Changing of the Guard ceremony, similar to Buckingham Palace. A new group of soldiers takes over responsibilities for guarding the palace. This ceremony happens at 11 AM on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
The Long Walk
The Long Walk is a picturesque avenue leading into the Great Park.
- The Long Walk is a 3-mile (5-kilometer) avenue leading into the Great Park. It was planted by Charles II in 1685 and features 1,652 trees, 9 meters apart. The walkway dates from 1710 and marks the eastern edge of the town of Windsor.
Home Park and Great Park
The castle is surrounded by extensive parklands, including Home Park and Great Park.
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Adjacent to the castle on the south, east, and north is Home Park, which consists of approximately 500 acres (200 hectares) of parkland. Frogmore, the site of the mausoleum of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, lies within the park.
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South of the castle lies the Great Park, with about 1,800 acres (700 hectares).
Virginia Water
Virginia Water is an artificial lake within the castle grounds, popular for recreation.
- Virginia Water is an artificial lake located at the southern boundary of the castle grounds. It was created in the 18th century and is a popular spot for boating and other recreational activities.
Historical Significance
Windsor Castle has played a crucial role in British history, especially during times of war.
- Windsor Castle has played a significant role in British history, serving as a refuge for the royal family during times of war and turmoil. During World War II, Queen Elizabeth II and her sister Margaret slept in the dungeons to avoid bombing.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Favorite Residence
The castle held a special place in Queen Elizabeth II's heart.
- Windsor Castle was Elizabeth II’s favorite residence. She spent much of her childhood there and decided that it would become her principal residence during weekends after she acceded to the throne in 1952.
300 Fireplaces
The castle's numerous fireplaces are meticulously maintained.
- Each of the 300 fireplaces in Windsor Castle is under the care of the King’s fendersmith. He has been doing this job for decades, having taken over from his father in 1984. It is a big job that requires a level of care and attention worthy of a king.
450 Clocks
Maintaining the castle's clocks is a complex task.
- The castle’s watch curator is responsible for maintaining all historical timepieces. Many of them have obsolete and highly complex mechanisms, which require a great deal of skill to keep them in working order. The two busiest weekends of the year are the time change weekends, when it takes about 40 hours of work to prepare and about 16 hours to move them all forward by one hour in the spring.
Long Walk’s History
The Long Walk has a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
- The Long Walk was commissioned by Charles II between 1680 and 1685. He had a span of elms planted, and the walkway dates from 1710, laid out under Queen Anne. It is approximately 3 miles long (4.5 kilometers) and marks the eastern edge of the town of Windsor. It is planted with 1,652 trees, 9 meters apart.
Burial Ground
Windsor Castle is the final resting place for several English kings.
- Windsor Castle is the burial ground for 10 of England’s kings. Charles I is one of them; he was tried and executed for treason in 1649 and beheaded at Whitehall Palace. He is interred alongside Henry VIII and his favorite wife, Jane Seymour.
Historical Art Collection
The castle boasts an impressive collection of historical art.
- Windsor Castle houses an impressive collection of historical art, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck. The castle also features paintings by Canaletto, known for his incredibly detailed views of cities.
Queen Victoria’s Influence
Queen Victoria made several changes to the castle during her reign.
- Queen Victoria made a few minor changes to the castle, which became the center for royal entertainment for much of her reign. She also restored the Albert Memorial Chapel in memory of her consort, Prince Albert.
George VI’s Refuge
During World War II, the castle served as a refuge for the royal family.
- During World War II, Windsor Castle served as a refuge for the royal family during the Luftwaffe bombing campaigns. The castle provided a safe haven for Elizabeth II and her sister Margaret, who occasionally slept in the old dungeon.
Fire Restoration
The castle underwent extensive restoration following the 1992 fire.
- After the fire in 1992, an extensive restoration of several state rooms took place. Most of the paintings, furniture, and other movable treasures were saved, but more than 100 rooms were destroyed or damaged. The restoration was completed in 1997.
Georgian and Victorian Design
The castle's current design reflects Georgian and Victorian influences.
- The present-day castle was created during a sequence of phased building projects, culminating in the reconstruction work after the fire in 1992. It is essentially a Georgian and Victorian design based on a medieval structure, with Gothic features reinvented in a modern style.
Architectural Criticism
Despite its grandeur, the castle's architecture has faced some criticism.
- Despite its grandeur, Windsor Castle’s architecture has faced criticism for its fictive quality. Architect Sir William Whitfield pointed out that the Picturesque and Gothic design generates a sense that a theatrical performance is being put on here, despite late 20th-century efforts to expose more of the older structures to increase authenticity.
Tourist Attraction
Windsor Castle is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
- Windsor Castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into over 1,000 years of history. The castle boasts its own chapels, a library, and rooms for its 150-strong staff. Visitors can explore the state apartments, St George’s Chapel, and other historical sites within the castle grounds.
State Visits
The castle has hosted numerous state visits and royal ceremonies.
- Windsor Castle has been the venue for numerous state visits and royal ceremonies. It is one of the most important sites for hosting foreign dignitaries and other official events.
Historical Significance in World War I
The castle played a symbolic role during World War I.
- During World War I, Windsor Castle inspired the naming of the royal House of Windsor. The historic estate became a symbol of British resilience and continuity during a time of great turmoil.
Historical Significance in World War II
The castle served as a refuge during World War II.
- During World War II, Windsor Castle served as a refuge for the royal family during the Luftwaffe bombing campaigns. The castle provided a safe haven for Elizabeth II and her sister Margaret, who occasionally slept in the old dungeon.
Queen Elizabeth II’s Residence
The castle held a special place in Queen Elizabeth II's heart.
- Windsor Castle was Elizabeth II’s favorite residence. She spent much of her childhood there and decided that it would become her principal residence during weekends after she acceded to the throne in 1952.
Historical Art Collection
The castle boasts an impressive collection of historical art.
- Windsor Castle houses an impressive collection of historical art, including works by famous artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Van Dyck. The castle also features paintings by Canaletto, known for his incredibly detailed views of cities.
Queen Victoria’s Influence
Queen Victoria made several changes to the castle during her reign.
- Queen Victoria made a few minor changes to the castle, which became the center for royal entertainment for much of her reign. She also restored the Albert Memorial Chapel in memory of her consort, Prince Albert.
George VI’s Refuge
During World War II, the castle served as a refuge for the royal family.
- During World War II, Windsor Castle served as a refuge for the royal family during the Luftwaffe bombing campaigns. The castle provided a safe haven for Elizabeth II and her sister Margaret, who occasionally slept in the old dungeon.
Fire Restoration
The castle underwent extensive restoration following the 1992 fire.
- After the fire in 1992, an extensive restoration of several state rooms took place. Most of the paintings, furniture, and other movable treasures were saved, but more than 100 rooms were destroyed or damaged. The restoration was completed in 1997.
Georgian and Victorian Design
The castle's current design reflects Georgian and Victorian influences.
- The present-day castle was created during a sequence of phased building projects, culminating in the reconstruction work after the fire in 1992. It is essentially a Georgian and Victorian design based on a medieval structure, with Gothic features reinvented in a modern style.
Architectural Criticism
Despite its grandeur, the castle's architecture has faced some criticism.
- Despite its grandeur, Windsor Castle’s architecture has faced criticism for its fictive quality. Architect Sir William Whitfield pointed out that the Picturesque and Gothic design generates a sense that a theatrical performance is being put on here, despite late 20th-century efforts to expose more of the older structures to increase authenticity.
Tourist Attraction
Windsor Castle is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world.
- Windsor Castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into over 1,000 years of history. The castle boasts its own chapels, a library, and rooms for its 150-strong staff. Visitors can explore the state apartments, St George’s Chapel, and other historical sites within the castle grounds.
Windsor Castle's Enduring Legacy
Windsor Castle stands as a testament to British history and royal tradition. With over 900 years of continuous use, it's the oldest inhabited castle in the world. From its strategic location on the River Thames to its role as a royal residence, Windsor Castle has seen countless historical events and transformations. Its architectural marvels, like St George’s Chapel and the Round Tower, and treasures such as Queen Mary’s Doll’s House, make it a must-visit. The castle's resilience, surviving attacks and a devastating fire in 1992, showcases its enduring strength. Whether you're fascinated by its art collection, intrigued by royal burials, or simply awed by its grandeur, Windsor Castle offers a unique glimpse into the past. It remains a symbol of the British monarchy, blending history, architecture, and culture in a way few places can.
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