Carlisle Castle

Carlisle Castle, a historic fortress in the old town of Carlisle, England, is over nine centuries old. This complex played a role in conflicts due to its location on the border between England and Scotland, and was the scene of historical events.

The origins of Carlisle Castle date back to 1093, when William II began construction next to a Roman fortification after conquering Cumberland. Henry I ordered the complex to be expanded into a stone fortress and a city wall to be built in 1122 to repel Scottish attempts at reconquest. Over the next 700 years, the castle frequently changed hands due to wars between England and Scotland. During the Anarchy, Scottish King David I captured the city and completed the city walls, but it fell back to the English just seven years later. In 1568, Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned here for several months.