The ruins of Wolvesey Palace are situated next to the current residence of of the Bishop of Winchester.
The surviving ruins of Wolvesey were largely the creation of one man, Bishop Henry of Blois (1129-71), who built a palace befitting his immense wealth and powerful position.
When Henry of Blois became bishop of Winchester in 1129, the residence consisted of a large hall block (the ‘west hall’), which had been built in about 1110 by the previous bishop, William Giffard (1107 – 29).*
Until his death 42 years later, Henry continually added new buildings. Starting with another hall block (the ‘east hall’), he then added a keep, a defensive tower and two gatehouses.
Although subsequent bishops carried out various repairs and alterations to the buildings, Henry’s palace survived virtually intact for the next 500 years. It is his work that comprises most of the ruins we see today.*
*From an information board with in the ruins
Absolutely gorgeous but tragic to see them fall into disrepair. Do we know why no one kept it up? Is it owned by The national Trust or English Heritage?
I forgot to add the tag it is an English Heritage property. It wasn’t that it wasn’t kept up, it was destroyed in the English Civil War.
I agree it is sad not to be able to see it now 900 years into the future.
It is sad, so many buildings have been destroyed for one reason or another over the years.
Yes but why are they ruins?
I could just say Google it
But instead I refer you to my comment above, they were destroyed during the English Civil War.
Oh it was destroyed in the English Civil War?
Not by Henry VIII?
Apparently so