Nov
23
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John Pelley asked:
Drive through the country side of South Central Connecticut. The country is very rolling, with many field stone fences. In East Haddam is St Stephen’s Episcopal Church, which has a bell dating from 815 A.D. It is said to be the world’s oldest church bell still in use. The Spanish monastery, from which it comes, was destroyed by Napoleon and the bell was salvaged. It arrived here on a shipload of metal and found a home in this parish church to toll again.
Also in East Haddam is the Goodspeed Theater, in which are performed musicals. Victorian in architecture, the theater overlooks the Connecticut River.
Also overlooking the river is the Gillette Castle. Built between 1914 and 1919, this building built entirely of fieldstone (six million on the property) is an example of the post Victorian Movement, reminiscent of the Prairie School of Chicago. William Gillette (no relation to Gillette Safety Razor Company), once a neighbor of Mark Twain in Hartford, ignored the wishes of his father and became an actor. During his career he wrote and stared in over twenty plays, most notably bringing the role of Sherlock Holmes to the stage. Around the turn of the century he was earning over $200,000 per year. He fell in love with the overlook of the river, which he called the Seventh Sister and proceeded to build this home. Consisting of 24 rooms, the house contains many ingenious inventions thought up by Gillette. Every door and lock is of a different design. He had a special lock on his liquor cabinet that even Albert Einstein or Mark Twain could not figure out how to open. He would silently laugh at them by viewing their frustrations in strategically placed mirrors. He had a small scaled railroad erected on his grounds with over three miles of track, including trestles and a hundred yard tunnel. The house itself has undergone extensive reconstruction and has now reopened to much of its former glory. At five dollars per person it is a bargain to see the tribute of William Gillette. Did I mention the view? Overlooking the Connecticut River and the surrounding countryside, you can see the small ferry crossing the River with passengers and cars.
Old Saybrook is at the tip of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. Once the home of Yale University before it moved to New Haven, it is now a quiet community. In the memorial park are the remnants of an old train roundhouse, a building in which maintenance was performed on the engines. A boardwalk leads out to an estuary and marsh lands with a description of the flora and fauna found there. An interesting plaque gives the history of the Pequot Wars. The tale told that the Pequot started the war with the British and the British finished it off. Is there a third side to the story?
Across the river is Old Lyme, purported to be the home of many ship captains. There is no map designating the historical homes. The locals claim that the town residents want to live in anonymity and keep the tourists away. On the Northern edge of town is Florence Griswold Museum with a collection of American Impressionists. Adjacent is an art academy and museum, which accepts tourists. Today Lyme has the dubious distinction of being the name of Lyme disease carried by the deer tick. There goes anonymity.
Further East is Groton, the home of the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear submarine, launched in 1954. She and her crew were the first ones to sail under the North Pole. Audio guided tours are available for free aboard the sub. She is the only nuclear submarine on display in the world. Groton is also the home of the Coast Guard Academy.
On the grounds is the submarine museum, with displays of submarines used since Bushnell invented the Turtle during the revolutionary war. Hand propelled he drove the sub into New York Harbor to blow up the English ship Eagle, but was unable to attach the charges. The museum has many hands on displays on life in a submarine, from the attack room, the conning tower with periscope, torpedo room, sonar and radar. Outside are one man and two man subs used by Italy, Japan, and other countries in war.
RICHARD
Drive through the country side of South Central Connecticut. The country is very rolling, with many field stone fences. In East Haddam is St Stephen’s Episcopal Church, which has a bell dating from 815 A.D. It is said to be the world’s oldest church bell still in use. The Spanish monastery, from which it comes, was destroyed by Napoleon and the bell was salvaged. It arrived here on a shipload of metal and found a home in this parish church to toll again.
Also in East Haddam is the Goodspeed Theater, in which are performed musicals. Victorian in architecture, the theater overlooks the Connecticut River.
Also overlooking the river is the Gillette Castle. Built between 1914 and 1919, this building built entirely of fieldstone (six million on the property) is an example of the post Victorian Movement, reminiscent of the Prairie School of Chicago. William Gillette (no relation to Gillette Safety Razor Company), once a neighbor of Mark Twain in Hartford, ignored the wishes of his father and became an actor. During his career he wrote and stared in over twenty plays, most notably bringing the role of Sherlock Holmes to the stage. Around the turn of the century he was earning over $200,000 per year. He fell in love with the overlook of the river, which he called the Seventh Sister and proceeded to build this home. Consisting of 24 rooms, the house contains many ingenious inventions thought up by Gillette. Every door and lock is of a different design. He had a special lock on his liquor cabinet that even Albert Einstein or Mark Twain could not figure out how to open. He would silently laugh at them by viewing their frustrations in strategically placed mirrors. He had a small scaled railroad erected on his grounds with over three miles of track, including trestles and a hundred yard tunnel. The house itself has undergone extensive reconstruction and has now reopened to much of its former glory. At five dollars per person it is a bargain to see the tribute of William Gillette. Did I mention the view? Overlooking the Connecticut River and the surrounding countryside, you can see the small ferry crossing the River with passengers and cars.
Old Saybrook is at the tip of the Connecticut River and Long Island Sound. Once the home of Yale University before it moved to New Haven, it is now a quiet community. In the memorial park are the remnants of an old train roundhouse, a building in which maintenance was performed on the engines. A boardwalk leads out to an estuary and marsh lands with a description of the flora and fauna found there. An interesting plaque gives the history of the Pequot Wars. The tale told that the Pequot started the war with the British and the British finished it off. Is there a third side to the story?
Across the river is Old Lyme, purported to be the home of many ship captains. There is no map designating the historical homes. The locals claim that the town residents want to live in anonymity and keep the tourists away. On the Northern edge of town is Florence Griswold Museum with a collection of American Impressionists. Adjacent is an art academy and museum, which accepts tourists. Today Lyme has the dubious distinction of being the name of Lyme disease carried by the deer tick. There goes anonymity.
Further East is Groton, the home of the USS Nautilus, the first nuclear submarine, launched in 1954. She and her crew were the first ones to sail under the North Pole. Audio guided tours are available for free aboard the sub. She is the only nuclear submarine on display in the world. Groton is also the home of the Coast Guard Academy.
On the grounds is the submarine museum, with displays of submarines used since Bushnell invented the Turtle during the revolutionary war. Hand propelled he drove the sub into New York Harbor to blow up the English ship Eagle, but was unable to attach the charges. The museum has many hands on displays on life in a submarine, from the attack room, the conning tower with periscope, torpedo room, sonar and radar. Outside are one man and two man subs used by Italy, Japan, and other countries in war.
RICHARD
Nov
13
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Matt Coughlan asked:
The Golden Lane is a part of the Prague Castle complex, dating from the 15th Century. It is a street where the houses are so small you would be forgiven for thinking they were inhabited by dwarves. Anyone who has read a Discworld novel would also be forgiven for thinking they had walked straight into Ankh Morpork, for this is where Terry Pratchett drew some of his inspiration from.
The Golden lane is essentially a very small street lined by 11 historic dwellings. Each house is in fact a tiny self contained exhibit, ranging from medieval armoury to textiles, as well as selling all of the usual souvenirs aimed at tourists. There are also some hands on activities to be found, such a shooting gallery located in one of the larger buildings where you can play around with a fully functional crossbow.
The lane was formed when a new outer wall was added to the existing castle complex, towards to the end of the 15th century, and Rudolf II gave the space to the castle marksmen guarding the fortification. There were 24 marksmen, and given the very limited space available this is how the houses came to be so small. Over time several of the houses were destroyed, and as marksmen became obsolete the houses were eventually sold on to the general public of the time. The lane supposedly got its name from the many alchemists who lived here, although this is in fact an urban myth. However, there was one documented story of a single Alchemist living amongst the regular folk in 1831, who ended up setting fire to part of his house following an explosion. When the fire was extinguished he was supposedly found lying dead with a large gold nugget in his hand. Had he turned lead into gold? I suppose we will never know!
If you are planning a trip to Prague it is definitely worth a visit. The kids will love it, and there is plenty for adults to see and do as well both here and in the castle itself.
JORGE
The Golden Lane is a part of the Prague Castle complex, dating from the 15th Century. It is a street where the houses are so small you would be forgiven for thinking they were inhabited by dwarves. Anyone who has read a Discworld novel would also be forgiven for thinking they had walked straight into Ankh Morpork, for this is where Terry Pratchett drew some of his inspiration from.
The Golden lane is essentially a very small street lined by 11 historic dwellings. Each house is in fact a tiny self contained exhibit, ranging from medieval armoury to textiles, as well as selling all of the usual souvenirs aimed at tourists. There are also some hands on activities to be found, such a shooting gallery located in one of the larger buildings where you can play around with a fully functional crossbow.
The lane was formed when a new outer wall was added to the existing castle complex, towards to the end of the 15th century, and Rudolf II gave the space to the castle marksmen guarding the fortification. There were 24 marksmen, and given the very limited space available this is how the houses came to be so small. Over time several of the houses were destroyed, and as marksmen became obsolete the houses were eventually sold on to the general public of the time. The lane supposedly got its name from the many alchemists who lived here, although this is in fact an urban myth. However, there was one documented story of a single Alchemist living amongst the regular folk in 1831, who ended up setting fire to part of his house following an explosion. When the fire was extinguished he was supposedly found lying dead with a large gold nugget in his hand. Had he turned lead into gold? I suppose we will never know!
If you are planning a trip to Prague it is definitely worth a visit. The kids will love it, and there is plenty for adults to see and do as well both here and in the castle itself.
JORGE
Sep
23
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Naveen Marasinghe asked:
The Bangalore Palace is an ancient medieval castle located in the heart of the Bangalore city. History lovers’ will be in for a treat as the place resembles the Windsor Castle in England and is designed in a Tudor style architectural manner. Covering an area of 430 acres, the castle was built in 1887 by the Wodeyar dynasty and is surrounded by a lush garden. This historical structure is a picturesque sight to behold amid India’s urban environment as it has a fairytale look with its turrets, battlements, arches and Gothic windows.
Much of the Bangalore Palace comprises of a lot of elaborated woodwork that is to be admired. The Castle is also renowned for its extensive beautiful 19th century paintings and carvings that are found within its ancient walls. Just before entering, take a moment to appreciate the delicately carved door panel.
The interior of the Bangalore Palace gives out a majestic aura as the place is filled with elaborate floral décor, cornices, artwork and lovely ceiling paintings. Upon entering, you will come to a courtyard that contains blue ceramic tiled granite seats and adjoining it stands a ballroom that was once used by the King. Connected by a staircase covered by paintings on its walls, the first floor’s main attraction is the spectacular Durbar Hall which is an ornately decorated room where private parties of the King were held. The room is dominated by a mounting of an elephant head, and is home to beautiful art displays and has a set of exquisite stained glass windows on one side of it.
Today, the venue of the Bangalore Castle is a popular one for holding events like concerts, exhibitions and cultural programs. Famous groups and singers like Bryan Adams, the Scorpions and the Rolling Stones have performed here in the past.
If you are visiting the city and looking for a comfortable and modern Bangalore hotel to stay in, The Gateway Hotel Residency Road Bangalore is a great choice. This hotel is sure to make your stay in the city a relaxing and memorable one with its stylish and classy elegance.
CALVIN
The Bangalore Palace is an ancient medieval castle located in the heart of the Bangalore city. History lovers’ will be in for a treat as the place resembles the Windsor Castle in England and is designed in a Tudor style architectural manner. Covering an area of 430 acres, the castle was built in 1887 by the Wodeyar dynasty and is surrounded by a lush garden. This historical structure is a picturesque sight to behold amid India’s urban environment as it has a fairytale look with its turrets, battlements, arches and Gothic windows.
Much of the Bangalore Palace comprises of a lot of elaborated woodwork that is to be admired. The Castle is also renowned for its extensive beautiful 19th century paintings and carvings that are found within its ancient walls. Just before entering, take a moment to appreciate the delicately carved door panel.
The interior of the Bangalore Palace gives out a majestic aura as the place is filled with elaborate floral décor, cornices, artwork and lovely ceiling paintings. Upon entering, you will come to a courtyard that contains blue ceramic tiled granite seats and adjoining it stands a ballroom that was once used by the King. Connected by a staircase covered by paintings on its walls, the first floor’s main attraction is the spectacular Durbar Hall which is an ornately decorated room where private parties of the King were held. The room is dominated by a mounting of an elephant head, and is home to beautiful art displays and has a set of exquisite stained glass windows on one side of it.
Today, the venue of the Bangalore Castle is a popular one for holding events like concerts, exhibitions and cultural programs. Famous groups and singers like Bryan Adams, the Scorpions and the Rolling Stones have performed here in the past.
If you are visiting the city and looking for a comfortable and modern Bangalore hotel to stay in, The Gateway Hotel Residency Road Bangalore is a great choice. This hotel is sure to make your stay in the city a relaxing and memorable one with its stylish and classy elegance.
CALVIN
Sep
17
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Naveen Marasinghe asked:
Located in the English town of Dudley, the Dudley Castle was constructed by the Normans in around 1071. Over the centuries this castle which is now in ruins, experienced some serious changes.
It is believed that the earliest Dudley Castle may have been built completely by wood. Most records of the castle dates back to the Norman Conquest that took place in 1066. It is believed that the castle was initially built by Ansculf who was among the Conqueror’s followers. Later, Ansculf’s son William Fitz-Ansculf owned the castle. Notable earthworks from the initial castle still remain. One such example is the ‘motte’, which is a huge mound on which the current castle keep sits today.
The first stone castle was built by the Paganel family who owned the Dudley Castle soon after William Fitz-Ansculf. As a result of a dispute, King Henry II ordered that the fortress be destroyed in 1173.
It was during the Somery Dynasty the Dudley Castle was rebuilt in stone once again on the very same site. The reconstruction phase took place during the 13th and 14th century. The main gate and the keep that is quite prominent even today is a result of the restoration phase carried out by the Somery’s who incorporated new additions to the castle such as the great hall and the chapel.
Following the death of the last male of the Somery dynasty, the ownership of the castle was passed on to Margaret his sister and her husband John de Sutton. With time, members of the Sutton family began to use ‘Dudley’ as their surname.
1st Duke of Northumberland, John Dudley was responsible for creating a series of new buildings within the old castle. Later on, the castle turned out to be a Royalist stronghold during the time of the English Civil War. Thereafter, the Cromwell forces surrendered the Dudley Castle in 1646. Following this the parliament decided unanimously that the castle be partly destroyed. The present day ruins are a result of the parliamentary verdict.
The Dudley Castle that carries immense historical significance can be further explored by staying at a nearby well appointed Dudley Hotel. For instance, Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill Dudley is a fine contemporary accommodation that features a range of impressive facilities.
ANGEL
Located in the English town of Dudley, the Dudley Castle was constructed by the Normans in around 1071. Over the centuries this castle which is now in ruins, experienced some serious changes.
It is believed that the earliest Dudley Castle may have been built completely by wood. Most records of the castle dates back to the Norman Conquest that took place in 1066. It is believed that the castle was initially built by Ansculf who was among the Conqueror’s followers. Later, Ansculf’s son William Fitz-Ansculf owned the castle. Notable earthworks from the initial castle still remain. One such example is the ‘motte’, which is a huge mound on which the current castle keep sits today.
The first stone castle was built by the Paganel family who owned the Dudley Castle soon after William Fitz-Ansculf. As a result of a dispute, King Henry II ordered that the fortress be destroyed in 1173.
It was during the Somery Dynasty the Dudley Castle was rebuilt in stone once again on the very same site. The reconstruction phase took place during the 13th and 14th century. The main gate and the keep that is quite prominent even today is a result of the restoration phase carried out by the Somery’s who incorporated new additions to the castle such as the great hall and the chapel.
Following the death of the last male of the Somery dynasty, the ownership of the castle was passed on to Margaret his sister and her husband John de Sutton. With time, members of the Sutton family began to use ‘Dudley’ as their surname.
1st Duke of Northumberland, John Dudley was responsible for creating a series of new buildings within the old castle. Later on, the castle turned out to be a Royalist stronghold during the time of the English Civil War. Thereafter, the Cromwell forces surrendered the Dudley Castle in 1646. Following this the parliament decided unanimously that the castle be partly destroyed. The present day ruins are a result of the parliamentary verdict.
The Dudley Castle that carries immense historical significance can be further explored by staying at a nearby well appointed Dudley Hotel. For instance, Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill Dudley is a fine contemporary accommodation that features a range of impressive facilities.
ANGEL
Sep
15
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John Parks asked:
of the city of Hamburg stems from the first known building constructed on the site. Emperor Charlemagne ordered the construction of a castle name Hammaburg built in 808 AD. The built in a marsh somewhere between Alster and the Elbe. The area was very rocky and designed to protect against Slavic attacks, which were very prevalent at the time. Linguists understand that “burg” means “castle,” however, they are unsure as to the nature “Hamma.” The exact location of the castle is unknown as well. The city grew very fast, achieving first fame as the seat of a Roman Catholic bishop named Ansgar, the Apostle of the North in 834. Nearly 500 inhabitants lived here until a fleet of 600 Viking ships raided and destroyed the town in 845. The city was rebuilt on the same site but suffered a similar fate in 1030. King Mieszko II Lambert of Poland again burned down the city during a brief war. After being rebuilt again, Frederick I, known as “Barbarossa,” granted the city a charter in 1189 that stated it was a tax free zone that would allow access to the North Sea via the Lower Elbe, on which Hamburg is located. This caused the city to become one of the fastest-growing ports in Northern Europe. Over the years, the city created trade alliances culminating in a 1241 charter that had Hamburg become a core partner in the powerful Hanseatic League with its trade routes connecting both the North Sea and the Baltic. During this time, however, the city was twice raided by forces from Denmark who occupied the city in both 1201 and 1214. Despite these events, Henry III issued a contract between London and the city which helped stimulate trade between the two cities in 1266. This was one of the most important trading relationships of the era. To make matters even more impressive, the first laws regarding civil, criminal and procedures were written in 1270. This caused the city to be a culturally important center during the Middle Ages. Again, however, in 1284, a notable fire laid waste to much of the city. A constitution was written and ratified on August 10, 1410. This constitution was one of the first of its kind in Germany. This constitution included provisions for religious tolerance that led the city to embrace Lutheranism. Subsequently, a number of Dutch and French Protestants arrived. This was followed in the 17th century with sephardi Jews arriving from Portugal. During the Napoleonic Wars, the city was annexed from 1810 to 1814. It was eventually freed by General Bennisen, a German general who controlled a portion of the Russian army. The city-state became an independent nation within the German Confederation. 1842 marked yet another treacherous year for Hamburg. Now known as the “Great Fire,” flames swept through on May 4 and continued to burn for four days. It destroyed much of the inner city including a number of churches and the town hall. 51 people died and nearly 20,000 were left homeless. It took nearly 40 years to rebuild, during which time a republican constitution was formed that stands to this day. For more information on Hamburg, Germany visit http://hamburgmicroblog.com and http://germanymicroblog.com
GLENN
of the city of Hamburg stems from the first known building constructed on the site. Emperor Charlemagne ordered the construction of a castle name Hammaburg built in 808 AD. The built in a marsh somewhere between Alster and the Elbe. The area was very rocky and designed to protect against Slavic attacks, which were very prevalent at the time. Linguists understand that “burg” means “castle,” however, they are unsure as to the nature “Hamma.” The exact location of the castle is unknown as well. The city grew very fast, achieving first fame as the seat of a Roman Catholic bishop named Ansgar, the Apostle of the North in 834. Nearly 500 inhabitants lived here until a fleet of 600 Viking ships raided and destroyed the town in 845. The city was rebuilt on the same site but suffered a similar fate in 1030. King Mieszko II Lambert of Poland again burned down the city during a brief war. After being rebuilt again, Frederick I, known as “Barbarossa,” granted the city a charter in 1189 that stated it was a tax free zone that would allow access to the North Sea via the Lower Elbe, on which Hamburg is located. This caused the city to become one of the fastest-growing ports in Northern Europe. Over the years, the city created trade alliances culminating in a 1241 charter that had Hamburg become a core partner in the powerful Hanseatic League with its trade routes connecting both the North Sea and the Baltic. During this time, however, the city was twice raided by forces from Denmark who occupied the city in both 1201 and 1214. Despite these events, Henry III issued a contract between London and the city which helped stimulate trade between the two cities in 1266. This was one of the most important trading relationships of the era. To make matters even more impressive, the first laws regarding civil, criminal and procedures were written in 1270. This caused the city to be a culturally important center during the Middle Ages. Again, however, in 1284, a notable fire laid waste to much of the city. A constitution was written and ratified on August 10, 1410. This constitution was one of the first of its kind in Germany. This constitution included provisions for religious tolerance that led the city to embrace Lutheranism. Subsequently, a number of Dutch and French Protestants arrived. This was followed in the 17th century with sephardi Jews arriving from Portugal. During the Napoleonic Wars, the city was annexed from 1810 to 1814. It was eventually freed by General Bennisen, a German general who controlled a portion of the Russian army. The city-state became an independent nation within the German Confederation. 1842 marked yet another treacherous year for Hamburg. Now known as the “Great Fire,” flames swept through on May 4 and continued to burn for four days. It destroyed much of the inner city including a number of churches and the town hall. 51 people died and nearly 20,000 were left homeless. It took nearly 40 years to rebuild, during which time a republican constitution was formed that stands to this day. For more information on Hamburg, Germany visit http://hamburgmicroblog.com and http://germanymicroblog.com
GLENN
Sep
4
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James Choice asked:
Scotland (Gaelic: Alba) is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Scotland is known for its’ typical Scottish music and sports and has over 790 beautiful islands with startling coastlines. The Scottish castles are the primary attractions of Scotland and are a symbol of historical moments of this country. There are approximately 3000 Scottish Castles here and are spread in all parts of the country.
The first Castle that I’m going to discuss about is the Castle Fraser. This Scottish castle is located near Inverurie and lies in the Aberdeenshire area of Scotland. This gorgeous Castle served as a backdrop for some of the scenes that were shot in Bafta. The Castle was initially known as the Muchall-in-Mar and has a number of stories attached to it. The Castle Fraser is open for public viewing in the summer months only.
The Edinburgh Castle is the second most popular destination in Scotland. It is interesting to note that this Castle stands upon an extinct volcano, which had risen some 340 million years ago. The Edinburgh Castle has been the center of military activities. It can be seen against an interesting skyline, where it sits grandly atop the Castle Rock.
Another popular in Scotland is the Edzell Castle. David Lindsay started the construction of this Castle in the year 1520 and later on the Earl of Dalhousie, ultimately owned this castle. It is known for a rather unusual Wall Garden. There is also an association with symbolism with regards to the structure of the garden.
Bothwell Castle has the reputation of being the largest Stone Castles in the country. It is located on a very steep river bank and around shaped tower characterizes this magnificent castle. The Bothwell Castle was constructed by William Moray.
So, visit Scotland and catch a glimpse of these interesting Castles!
CHRISTIAN
Scotland (Gaelic: Alba) is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Scotland is known for its’ typical Scottish music and sports and has over 790 beautiful islands with startling coastlines. The Scottish castles are the primary attractions of Scotland and are a symbol of historical moments of this country. There are approximately 3000 Scottish Castles here and are spread in all parts of the country.
The first Castle that I’m going to discuss about is the Castle Fraser. This Scottish castle is located near Inverurie and lies in the Aberdeenshire area of Scotland. This gorgeous Castle served as a backdrop for some of the scenes that were shot in Bafta. The Castle was initially known as the Muchall-in-Mar and has a number of stories attached to it. The Castle Fraser is open for public viewing in the summer months only.
The Edinburgh Castle is the second most popular destination in Scotland. It is interesting to note that this Castle stands upon an extinct volcano, which had risen some 340 million years ago. The Edinburgh Castle has been the center of military activities. It can be seen against an interesting skyline, where it sits grandly atop the Castle Rock.
Another popular in Scotland is the Edzell Castle. David Lindsay started the construction of this Castle in the year 1520 and later on the Earl of Dalhousie, ultimately owned this castle. It is known for a rather unusual Wall Garden. There is also an association with symbolism with regards to the structure of the garden.
Bothwell Castle has the reputation of being the largest Stone Castles in the country. It is located on a very steep river bank and around shaped tower characterizes this magnificent castle. The Bothwell Castle was constructed by William Moray.
So, visit Scotland and catch a glimpse of these interesting Castles!
CHRISTIAN
Aug
30
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Tim Roseland asked:
Goodrich Castle is the most splendid in the county of Herefordshire, and one of the best examples of English military architecture. It is still impressive despite its ruinous state. The castle is perched on a rocky spur above the River Wye, four miles southwest of Ross-on-Wye.
Godric’s Castle - no doubt named after Godric Mappestone, who held the land nearby - is first recorded in 1101. Nothing is left of Godric’s stronghold but within the bailey, very close to the later curtain, rises a well-preserved though relatively small Norman keep. Henry II took over the castle, and the keep is generally attributed to him, but the royal accounts record very little expenditure here.
The keep is a tall, square tower with pilaster buttresses and Norman windows. The original first floor entrance was later converted into a window, with a new doorway inserted immediately below.
Strangely enough, the existing curtain and corner towers are not the first on the site. King John granted Goodrich to the mighty William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, and a stone enclosure followed. Some of his masonry is embedded in the present east curtain and the foundations of a round tower underlie the present southwest tower.
A later Earl of Pembroke, William de Valence, tore this structure down and erected his own. His building is contemporary and comparable with the Edwardian castles of Wales. Such a castle is a rarity in England. It is square in plan, the more vulnerable south and east sides being protected by a wide, rock-cut ditch. A thick curtain surrounds the bailey, with massive round towers at three corners and a gatehouse occupying the fourth. Each tower rises from a solid square base, which sinks back into the cylinder in pyramid fashion. Forming spurs. The spurs projecting from the southeast tower are particularly high.
During much of the 14th and 15th centuries the castle was the home to the Talbots, before they abandoned it in favour of more modern accommodation. The empty castle was reoccupied during the Civil War by Parliamentary forces in 1643 and then Royalist forces in 1645. Following their surrender after a two month siege the castle was slighted to prevent any further use.
For more information on Goodrich Castle please see below. For all your travel needs visit us at myroadtotravel.com. For more on Castles visit myroadtoravelblog.com.
Tel: 01600 890538
E-mail: customers@english-heritage.org.uk
Access to castle: Many steps to the courtyard and Great Hall. Upper floors reached via steep stairs, some spiralled. Access to chapel via one step.
Grounds: Accessed via steps; gravel or paved paths.
Visually impaired: Special audio tour included in admission price.
Hearing impaired visitors: Audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price.
Parking: 330m from entrance. To avoid slopes and steps park near the refreshments area. Path to the castle can be muddy in places. Disabled visitors may take their cars along the driveway (marked no entry) to within 15m of the castle entrance on a rough track, closing gate behind them. (please notify custodian in advance).
Toilets:Adapted WCs in car park with level access.
Refreshments:In car park (privately run, open April - September only), with wooden benches outside.
MARCEL
Goodrich Castle is the most splendid in the county of Herefordshire, and one of the best examples of English military architecture. It is still impressive despite its ruinous state. The castle is perched on a rocky spur above the River Wye, four miles southwest of Ross-on-Wye.
Godric’s Castle - no doubt named after Godric Mappestone, who held the land nearby - is first recorded in 1101. Nothing is left of Godric’s stronghold but within the bailey, very close to the later curtain, rises a well-preserved though relatively small Norman keep. Henry II took over the castle, and the keep is generally attributed to him, but the royal accounts record very little expenditure here.
The keep is a tall, square tower with pilaster buttresses and Norman windows. The original first floor entrance was later converted into a window, with a new doorway inserted immediately below.
Strangely enough, the existing curtain and corner towers are not the first on the site. King John granted Goodrich to the mighty William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, and a stone enclosure followed. Some of his masonry is embedded in the present east curtain and the foundations of a round tower underlie the present southwest tower.
A later Earl of Pembroke, William de Valence, tore this structure down and erected his own. His building is contemporary and comparable with the Edwardian castles of Wales. Such a castle is a rarity in England. It is square in plan, the more vulnerable south and east sides being protected by a wide, rock-cut ditch. A thick curtain surrounds the bailey, with massive round towers at three corners and a gatehouse occupying the fourth. Each tower rises from a solid square base, which sinks back into the cylinder in pyramid fashion. Forming spurs. The spurs projecting from the southeast tower are particularly high.
During much of the 14th and 15th centuries the castle was the home to the Talbots, before they abandoned it in favour of more modern accommodation. The empty castle was reoccupied during the Civil War by Parliamentary forces in 1643 and then Royalist forces in 1645. Following their surrender after a two month siege the castle was slighted to prevent any further use.
For more information on Goodrich Castle please see below. For all your travel needs visit us at myroadtotravel.com. For more on Castles visit myroadtoravelblog.com.
Tel: 01600 890538
E-mail: customers@english-heritage.org.uk
Access to castle: Many steps to the courtyard and Great Hall. Upper floors reached via steep stairs, some spiralled. Access to chapel via one step.
Grounds: Accessed via steps; gravel or paved paths.
Visually impaired: Special audio tour included in admission price.
Hearing impaired visitors: Audio tour with hearing loop included in admission price.
Parking: 330m from entrance. To avoid slopes and steps park near the refreshments area. Path to the castle can be muddy in places. Disabled visitors may take their cars along the driveway (marked no entry) to within 15m of the castle entrance on a rough track, closing gate behind them. (please notify custodian in advance).
Toilets:Adapted WCs in car park with level access.
Refreshments:In car park (privately run, open April - September only), with wooden benches outside.
MARCEL
Aug
28
Filed Under Destinations | Comments Off
Ian Wilkie asked:
Spending a day watching Cinderella and her lavish castle will make the holiday memorable and one that the child will cherish all their life. Located in the middle of the two theme parks, this has been around since 1971, giving every visitor something new to look forward to.
During your stay at the magical Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you and you family members can take a walk through the Cinderella’s castle, which has mosaic murals narrating the tale. Each of these is made of Italian smooth glass and rough ones that are made especially by Italian craftsman. One can make out the emotions playing across the faces of Cinderella and her evil step sisters right down to the ball, after which she tries on the glass slippers. There is an attached shopping arena called Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where young girls can get anything they desire.
In order to enjoy all this, you will need to book your journey way ahead, and this can be done either online or through an agency that will plan your entire itinerary. There is even a Cinderella Suite on the top of the castle which today can house upto 6 guests; this was once intended for Sir Walt Disney and his friends to reside in. Staying here would leave you feeling like a real princess, with the fluffy queen sized beds and rich castle like walls and view from your room. And as you get out of your castle, you can stroll through Mickey’s Toontown Fair, where you can shake hands with Mickey Mouse and gang who live right there. A latest addition to the Disney World, this is sure to make your Walt Disney World vacation better.
You can take the train from anywhere in the park and watch the various splendors of their park come alive. What child would not like to check out the various castles and palaces home to their favorite characters? In the Magic Kingdom section, you find Fantasyland, filled with princesses, pixies and little boys who don’t grow up. A play area where you spend time with Winnie the Pooh or what looks like scenes from the 20,000 leagues under the sea book is what awaits you.
When you get bored of these, you can take the train to Pinocchio’s village which is near the fair lands. You will go through numerous tunnels that take you from Adventureland to the Liberty Square. Housed within these walls are the finest restaurants and souvenir stores for you to indulge in. A fun filled, learning experience is what you take back when you wind up for the day in your comfortable bed on tip the Cinderella’s castle.
The Orlando area is famous for its condos and villas that you can pick up to add a bit of spice to your vacation. Fitted with all the amenities and services you could dream off, these make for ideal getaways from the crowd and close enough to spend time during your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
IGNACIO
Spending a day watching Cinderella and her lavish castle will make the holiday memorable and one that the child will cherish all their life. Located in the middle of the two theme parks, this has been around since 1971, giving every visitor something new to look forward to.
During your stay at the magical Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you and you family members can take a walk through the Cinderella’s castle, which has mosaic murals narrating the tale. Each of these is made of Italian smooth glass and rough ones that are made especially by Italian craftsman. One can make out the emotions playing across the faces of Cinderella and her evil step sisters right down to the ball, after which she tries on the glass slippers. There is an attached shopping arena called Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique where young girls can get anything they desire.
In order to enjoy all this, you will need to book your journey way ahead, and this can be done either online or through an agency that will plan your entire itinerary. There is even a Cinderella Suite on the top of the castle which today can house upto 6 guests; this was once intended for Sir Walt Disney and his friends to reside in. Staying here would leave you feeling like a real princess, with the fluffy queen sized beds and rich castle like walls and view from your room. And as you get out of your castle, you can stroll through Mickey’s Toontown Fair, where you can shake hands with Mickey Mouse and gang who live right there. A latest addition to the Disney World, this is sure to make your Walt Disney World vacation better.
You can take the train from anywhere in the park and watch the various splendors of their park come alive. What child would not like to check out the various castles and palaces home to their favorite characters? In the Magic Kingdom section, you find Fantasyland, filled with princesses, pixies and little boys who don’t grow up. A play area where you spend time with Winnie the Pooh or what looks like scenes from the 20,000 leagues under the sea book is what awaits you.
When you get bored of these, you can take the train to Pinocchio’s village which is near the fair lands. You will go through numerous tunnels that take you from Adventureland to the Liberty Square. Housed within these walls are the finest restaurants and souvenir stores for you to indulge in. A fun filled, learning experience is what you take back when you wind up for the day in your comfortable bed on tip the Cinderella’s castle.
The Orlando area is famous for its condos and villas that you can pick up to add a bit of spice to your vacation. Fitted with all the amenities and services you could dream off, these make for ideal getaways from the crowd and close enough to spend time during your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
IGNACIO
Jan
17
Visit Haunted Castles in Ireland!
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Patricia asked:
Castle doors suddenly slam shut. Swift winds tear through guest rooms on otherwise calm nights. Terrifying wails are heard from deep within castles. The reason for these events? Ghosts. Their spirits have been haunting some castles in Ireland for hundreds of years. If you are brave enough, you might want to visit or stay in one of the real haunted castles in Ireland.
Many battles took place in Irish castles over many centuries of struggle for Irish rule. The violence and bloodshed took many lives and created many legends. Some of the castle ghosts were involved in the fighting; others had more personal tragedies. I visited many haunted castles during my most recent castle tour.
Charleville Castle in County Offaly is haunted by the ghost of its former owner, by druids buried on the grounds, and by a girl who fell from a high staircase to her death. When I visited, ghost hunters were setting up equipment to detect the spirits.
Clonony Castle is in County Offaly, near the Shannon River. A ghostly figure of a man reportedly patrols one of its towers.
Ballygally Castle is 20 miles from Belfast on the Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. It is a beautiful hotel and is said to have its own friendly ghost!
Carrickfergus Castle in County Antrim, Northern Ireland is home to “Buttoncap”, the ghost of a young 16th Century soldier.
Huntington Castle in County Carlow is built on the site of a Druids Temple. Spirits of deceased monks, a murdered soldier, and Lady Esmond all haunt this large estate.
Killua Castle, located in County Westmeath, is rumored to have a former employee’s ghostly figure stalking the grounds at night.
Castle Leslie in County Monaghan, Northern Ireland is a beautiful castle haunted by Norman Leslie, slain in World War I.
Gormanston Castle in County Meath was owned by a family for seven centuries. Legend has it that foxes surrounded the castle upon the death of one of the family members.
Kinnitty Castle in Country Offaly is a beautifully restored castle hotel built on land once inhabited by Druids. This castle is haunted by the “Phantom Monk of Kinnitty”.
Wilton Castle in County Wexford is said to be home to the ghosts of a former magistrate, a dead actress, and a former castle resident.
Leap Castle in County Offaly is widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Ireland. Its bloody past of massacres and murders has led to the presence of vengeful ghosts and unexplained noises, placing Leap Castle at the top of the list of real haunted castles in Ireland.
Whether or not you believe in ghost stories, it is worth testing your beliefs firsthand. You will definitely enjoy a visit to these beautiful and real haunted castles in Ireland.
DOUGLAS
Castle doors suddenly slam shut. Swift winds tear through guest rooms on otherwise calm nights. Terrifying wails are heard from deep within castles. The reason for these events? Ghosts. Their spirits have been haunting some castles in Ireland for hundreds of years. If you are brave enough, you might want to visit or stay in one of the real haunted castles in Ireland.
Many battles took place in Irish castles over many centuries of struggle for Irish rule. The violence and bloodshed took many lives and created many legends. Some of the castle ghosts were involved in the fighting; others had more personal tragedies. I visited many haunted castles during my most recent castle tour.
Charleville Castle in County Offaly is haunted by the ghost of its former owner, by druids buried on the grounds, and by a girl who fell from a high staircase to her death. When I visited, ghost hunters were setting up equipment to detect the spirits.
Clonony Castle is in County Offaly, near the Shannon River. A ghostly figure of a man reportedly patrols one of its towers.
Ballygally Castle is 20 miles from Belfast on the Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. It is a beautiful hotel and is said to have its own friendly ghost!
Carrickfergus Castle in County Antrim, Northern Ireland is home to “Buttoncap”, the ghost of a young 16th Century soldier.
Huntington Castle in County Carlow is built on the site of a Druids Temple. Spirits of deceased monks, a murdered soldier, and Lady Esmond all haunt this large estate.
Killua Castle, located in County Westmeath, is rumored to have a former employee’s ghostly figure stalking the grounds at night.
Castle Leslie in County Monaghan, Northern Ireland is a beautiful castle haunted by Norman Leslie, slain in World War I.
Gormanston Castle in County Meath was owned by a family for seven centuries. Legend has it that foxes surrounded the castle upon the death of one of the family members.
Kinnitty Castle in Country Offaly is a beautifully restored castle hotel built on land once inhabited by Druids. This castle is haunted by the “Phantom Monk of Kinnitty”.
Wilton Castle in County Wexford is said to be home to the ghosts of a former magistrate, a dead actress, and a former castle resident.
Leap Castle in County Offaly is widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Ireland. Its bloody past of massacres and murders has led to the presence of vengeful ghosts and unexplained noises, placing Leap Castle at the top of the list of real haunted castles in Ireland.
Whether or not you believe in ghost stories, it is worth testing your beliefs firsthand. You will definitely enjoy a visit to these beautiful and real haunted castles in Ireland.
DOUGLAS
Jan
5
Michael Kohler asked:
One of the greatest myths regarding the Coral Castle located in Homestead Florida just south of Miami, Florida is the origin of its famous 9 Ton Gate. This amazing 18,000 pounds of coral is said to be the reason why the original Coral Castle which was in Florida City, Florida was called by Edward Leedskalnin “Rock Gate Park”. This is actually an easy assumption based upon the fact that it is one of the more mysterious and enigmatic features of this modern monolithic structure that was made famous by Leonard Nimoy of Star Trek fame on his series “In Search Of” in the early 1980s.
The truth of the matter is that the 9 Ton Gate at its present location at the Coral Castle in Homestead was taken directly out of the ground in the quarries there, and not in Florida City. This is easy to understand when you have actually gone to the Coral Castle and looked at the coral that it is made of.
There are actually two types of coral at the Coral Castle. The coral structures that were moved from Florida City to Homestead during the period of 1937 to 1941 were made of a very dark and layered oolite coral. The other kind of coral is that which most of us are familiar with if we go snorkeling and see the very porous coral made famous by scenes of the coral reefs.
The coral that the 9 Ton Gate is made of is the porous coral which is indigenous only to the Homestead Florida site, not the Florida City site. The more layered darker coral which “Rock Gate Park” is made of is not what you see after examining this 18,000 pound piece of coral.
I am not sure why Ed called his initial structure “Rock Gate Park”, but based upon the composition of the coral that the 9 Ton Gate is made of, it is clear that it was created in Homestead and was never in Florida City.
Regardless of the fact that the 9 Ton Gate is the result of Ed’s work in Homestead, Florida, if you consider the magnitude of his achievement in creating a gateway that was 18,000 pounds and perfectly balanced, with a hole cored through this piece of coral at the exact center of balance, and that he somehow mounted it by himself with no modern tools and no one seeing him work, it defies common sense and logic to assume that he was using conventional means to move these megalithic pieces of coral.
Upon further consideration you realize that Edward Leedskalnin was not only capable of moving large pieces of coral that only modern machinery can move today, but his engineering prowess in being able to maneuver these enormous objects in such a way that they would be perfectly balanced, one can only imagine he had laser precision tools or that he was one of the luckiest builders in history.
Since it is illogical to assume that luck was the basis of his amazing abilities, and due to the fact that any modern equipment of that size would have been easily noticeable, you must take into account the myths and stories of Ed Leedskalnin regarding how he is said to have worked at night and that no one ever saw him working and that he sang to the stones which caused them to float in place.
Although the idea of levitation is plausible in theory in our modern world, today we still do not have a means by which we can levitate regular sized objects weighing even 10 or 20 pounds without utilizing some kind of modern technology. Yet here was a man that was able to defy modern physics, and that claimed to know the secrets of the ancient pyramid builders, leaving behind a structure that no one can make today. How can you not believe that he was telling the truth when he has created a structure that has no equal in modern times and has not been replicated either physically or mathematically by those with modern skills that should be able to do so if it were possible.
Going back to the discussion of the original location of the 9 Ton Gate, if it was never in Florida City, why did he call his original site Rock Gate Park? Of all of the pieces brought over from Florida City, none of them resemble a gate. Perhaps we will never know what inspired Ed to name his rock garden “Rock Gate Park”. However we do know one thing: the 9 Ton Gate is both a scientific and technological impossibility to have been created in the 1930s by one man that had no modern tools by which to create such a perfectly balanced and carved structure of wonder. It is a mystery that may never be solved and a structure that may never be re-created ever again.
RUBIN
One of the greatest myths regarding the Coral Castle located in Homestead Florida just south of Miami, Florida is the origin of its famous 9 Ton Gate. This amazing 18,000 pounds of coral is said to be the reason why the original Coral Castle which was in Florida City, Florida was called by Edward Leedskalnin “Rock Gate Park”. This is actually an easy assumption based upon the fact that it is one of the more mysterious and enigmatic features of this modern monolithic structure that was made famous by Leonard Nimoy of Star Trek fame on his series “In Search Of” in the early 1980s.
The truth of the matter is that the 9 Ton Gate at its present location at the Coral Castle in Homestead was taken directly out of the ground in the quarries there, and not in Florida City. This is easy to understand when you have actually gone to the Coral Castle and looked at the coral that it is made of.
There are actually two types of coral at the Coral Castle. The coral structures that were moved from Florida City to Homestead during the period of 1937 to 1941 were made of a very dark and layered oolite coral. The other kind of coral is that which most of us are familiar with if we go snorkeling and see the very porous coral made famous by scenes of the coral reefs.
The coral that the 9 Ton Gate is made of is the porous coral which is indigenous only to the Homestead Florida site, not the Florida City site. The more layered darker coral which “Rock Gate Park” is made of is not what you see after examining this 18,000 pound piece of coral.
I am not sure why Ed called his initial structure “Rock Gate Park”, but based upon the composition of the coral that the 9 Ton Gate is made of, it is clear that it was created in Homestead and was never in Florida City.
Regardless of the fact that the 9 Ton Gate is the result of Ed’s work in Homestead, Florida, if you consider the magnitude of his achievement in creating a gateway that was 18,000 pounds and perfectly balanced, with a hole cored through this piece of coral at the exact center of balance, and that he somehow mounted it by himself with no modern tools and no one seeing him work, it defies common sense and logic to assume that he was using conventional means to move these megalithic pieces of coral.
Upon further consideration you realize that Edward Leedskalnin was not only capable of moving large pieces of coral that only modern machinery can move today, but his engineering prowess in being able to maneuver these enormous objects in such a way that they would be perfectly balanced, one can only imagine he had laser precision tools or that he was one of the luckiest builders in history.
Since it is illogical to assume that luck was the basis of his amazing abilities, and due to the fact that any modern equipment of that size would have been easily noticeable, you must take into account the myths and stories of Ed Leedskalnin regarding how he is said to have worked at night and that no one ever saw him working and that he sang to the stones which caused them to float in place.
Although the idea of levitation is plausible in theory in our modern world, today we still do not have a means by which we can levitate regular sized objects weighing even 10 or 20 pounds without utilizing some kind of modern technology. Yet here was a man that was able to defy modern physics, and that claimed to know the secrets of the ancient pyramid builders, leaving behind a structure that no one can make today. How can you not believe that he was telling the truth when he has created a structure that has no equal in modern times and has not been replicated either physically or mathematically by those with modern skills that should be able to do so if it were possible.
Going back to the discussion of the original location of the 9 Ton Gate, if it was never in Florida City, why did he call his original site Rock Gate Park? Of all of the pieces brought over from Florida City, none of them resemble a gate. Perhaps we will never know what inspired Ed to name his rock garden “Rock Gate Park”. However we do know one thing: the 9 Ton Gate is both a scientific and technological impossibility to have been created in the 1930s by one man that had no modern tools by which to create such a perfectly balanced and carved structure of wonder. It is a mystery that may never be solved and a structure that may never be re-created ever again.
RUBIN