Pictures of Castles

A guide in pictures to medieval castles in England, Wales, Ireland and Europe

The White Tower

The Great Tower was build by William the Conqueror in 1078. He build the tower to protect the City of London from the Normans. William used stone imported from France.

 

King Henry III started living in the Tower around 1240. He made several additions including a great hall and other buildings. He also had the tower whitewashed. This prompted the Normans to refer to the tower as 'La Tour Blanche', which means White Tower.

 

King Richard the Lionheart had the moat added around the surrounding wall. The moat was not successful until Henry III improved it. The moat was drained in 1830.

Jewel House

Since at least 1661 the Crown Jewels have been on display at the Tower of London.