Geograph - photograph every grid square

Construction of Lincoln Castle was begun in 1068 by William the Conqueror, on top of an old hill fort site used by the Romans with 166 houses being demolished to accommodate it. Originally the west gate was the main entrance but had been blocked up in the 14th or 15th century (depending on who you believe) and the east gate became the main entrance. The east gate was originally a plain Norman arch built into a rectangular recess in the wall. It was strengthened possibly in the 13th century by a gatehouse and two round turrets which probably rose higher than they do today. The castle also had a barbican spanning a dry moat, which included a drawbridge and portcullis; these were pulled down in 1791.