A New Feature of the Landscape
One of the most visible effects of the Norman Conquest was the building of castles.
Before 1066, castles were very rare in England.
After the conquest, hundreds were built.
Why Were Castles Important?
Castles helped the Normans:
- Defend important areas
- Control towns and roads
- Crush rebellions
- Intimidate local people
Many castles began as motte and bailey castles before being rebuilt in stone.
Castles Today
Many Norman castles still survive.
Examples include:
- Tower of London
- Dover Castle
- Durham Castle
These buildings remind us of Norman power nearly 1,000 years later.