‘Steals from the rich, and gives to the poor!’
More accurately, Robin Hood, or so the legend goes, stole from the occupants of Castle Rock in Nottingham. Yet the castle is known for more than its connection (and altercations) with green hooded heroes. Its first structure was put up by William the Conqueror after the battle of Hastings in 1066. Yet the weak wooden exterior was soon replaced by a stronger stone fortification during the reign of Henry II, a structure that would remain in place for years to come due to its strong strategic position next to the River Trent.
This design is a tribute to the rich medieval history of the city of Nottingham, epitomised by Castle Rock. Whilst today the bounds of modern architecture have been stretched to significant lengths by technology, it will never cease to be fascinating how the stone walls of castles like this would have stood dominant over the city below for so many centuries, a sign of power and often brutality, but key to understanding the history of the British monarchy.
Let this design inspire kitchen table conversations about Robin Hood and the legacy of those Royals who occupied Castle Rock in years gone by.
