Warwick Castle has a rich history of ownership, with 36 different individuals and four periods as crown property under seven different monarchs. The castle has been the family seat of three separate creations of the Earls of Warwick and has been a home to members of the Beaumont, Beauchamp, Neville, Plantagenet, Dudley, and Greville families. Among the notable queens associated with Warwick Castle is Queen Elizabeth I, who visited the castle in 1572.
Who was the Warwick Castle Queen?
Queen Elizabeth I is the most notable queen associated with Warwick Castle. In 1572, she visited the Borough of Warwick, and the civic dignitaries waited to greet her with an oration and a paper of Latin verses. However, due to poor weather, she took a different route, causing some anxious moments for the dignitaries. Despite the weather, Queen Elizabeth I listened patiently to the oration and received the verses.
Ownership History of Warwick Castle
Warwick Castle has a long and varied history of ownership, with many notable individuals and royal figures associated with it. Here are some key facts about the castle’s ownership:
| Owner | Duration |
|---|---|
| Beaumont Family | 1088-1242 |
| Beauchamp Family | 1242-1449 |
| Neville Family | 1449-1471 |
| Plantagenet Family | 1471-1499 |
| Dudley Family | 1499-1563 |
| Greville Family | 1563-present |
The first creation of the Earldom specifically included the right of inheritance through the female line, resulting in the castle being owned by three women (or girls) at different times. Eleven of the owners were under 20 when they inherited, including a girl aged two and a boy aged three. At least three owners died in battle, two were executed, and one was murdered.
Architectural Changes and Renovations
During the reign of King Henry II, the castle was rebuilt in stone and had a new layout with buildings against the curtain walls. The castle is surrounded by a dry moat on the northern side, and the residential buildings line the eastern side, facing the River Avon.
Over the centuries, the castle has undergone various renovations and changes to its architecture and layout. Some notable changes include:
- Rebuilding in stone during the reign of King Henry II
- Addition of new buildings against the curtain walls
- Construction of a dry moat on the northern side
- Placement of residential buildings along the eastern side, facing the River Avon
Significant Owners and Events
Warwick Castle has been owned by a variety of notable individuals and families throughout its history. Some of the most significant owners and events include:
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Beaumont Family (1088-1242): The Beaumont family were the first owners of Warwick Castle after the Norman Conquest.
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Beauchamp Family (1242-1449): The Beauchamp family were the second owners of the castle and played a significant role in its history.
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Neville Family (1449-1471): The Neville family, including the famous “Kingmaker” Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, owned the castle during this period.
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Plantagenet Family (1471-1499): The Plantagenet family, including King Edward IV and his son Edward V, owned the castle during this time.
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Dudley Family (1499-1563): The Dudley family, including the infamous John Dudley, Duke of Northumberland, owned the castle during this period.
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Greville Family (1563-present): The Greville family have been the owners of Warwick Castle since 1563 and continue to own it today.
Conclusion
Warwick Castle has a rich and fascinating history, with a diverse array of owners and notable events associated with it. From its early days under the Beaumont family to its current ownership by the Greville family, the castle has played a significant role in the history of England. The visit of Queen Elizabeth I in 1572 is just one example of the castle’s connections to the royal family and its importance as a historic site.
References:
– List of owners of Warwick Castle
– Warwick Castle
– Elizabeth passes through