Windsor Castle, one of the most iconic and historic royal residences in the United Kingdom, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. As King Charles III ascends the throne, the castle continues to hold a significant place in the British monarchy’s legacy.
The Enduring History of Windsor Castle
- 11th Century: The castle was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, initially as a wooden motte-and-bailey structure.
- 13th Century: King John undertook building works at Windsor, focusing on accommodations rather than defenses. The castle played a crucial role during the revolt of the English barons, being besieged twice in 1214 and 1216.
- 15th Century: Windsor Castle remained a favored royal residence, despite the political violence of the era. Henry IV seized the castle during his coup in 1399, and Henry V hosted a visit from the Holy Roman Emperor in 1417.
- Restoration and Renovations: After the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660, Charles II rebuilt much of Windsor Castle with the help of architect Hugh May, creating extravagant Baroque interiors. Later, George III and George IV renovated and rebuilt Charles II’s palace at colossal expense, producing the current design of the state apartments.
King Charles III and Windsor Castle
As the new monarch, King Charles III has already made some notable changes to the management of Windsor Castle:
- Ending Free Admission for Locals: The king has ended the 200-year-old tradition of free admission to Windsor Castle for local residents, starting June 1, 2024. Instead, a discounted fee will be offered to residents with a Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card.
- Future Programme: The Royal Collection Trust is implementing changes to make Windsor Castle more accessible to visitors. This includes discounted fees for local residents and initiatives such as free visits for community organizations and a travel subsidy for schools working with economically disadvantaged children.
- Easter Service: Windsor Castle hosts various events and services throughout the year, including the Easter service. Although details about King Charles III’s specific Easter service are not provided, it is likely that the service would reflect his ongoing health issues, potentially with adjustments to the ceremony or his participation.
Highlights of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle offers a wealth of historical and architectural wonders for visitors to explore:
State Apartments
The State Apartments are used by the Royal Family for official visits and ceremonies. They include the Grand Reception Room, which was severely damaged in the 1992 fire and has since been restored to its former glory.
St George’s Chapel
The chapel is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in England and has been the location of many royal weddings. It is also the spiritual home of the Order of the Garter, the senior order of British Chivalry established in 1348.
Moat Room
The Moat Room features a bronze model of Windsor Castle in 1377 and a timeline illustrating the history of the castle.
As King Charles III takes the throne, Windsor Castle remains a symbol of the British monarchy’s enduring legacy. With ongoing changes and initiatives, the castle continues to evolve, ensuring its place as a cherished national treasure for generations to come.