Alnwick is a town located in Northumberland, in the northeast of England.
Alnwick Castle is one of the possible locations given by Malory for Joyous Garde, Lancelot’s castle. It may appear in Girart d’Amiens Escanor as Annuec.
Alnwick Castle | History
Alnwick Castle has a long and storied history, with its origins dating back to the Norman period in the late eleventh century. It was constructed shortly after the Norman Conquest of England. The castle was constructed on the site of an ancient fortification. The Normans recognized the strategic importance of the location and built their castle atop the site of the original fort. This was a common practice during the Norman period, as it allowed them to take advantage of existing defensive features while adding their own modifications and fortifications.
The ancient fort that preceded Alnwick Castle likely had earlier origins, possibly dating back to the Roman or Anglo-Saxon periods. The Normans adapted and expanded the fortifications, creating a stronghold that served both as a defensive structure and as a residence for the nobility. Over the centuries, Alnwick Castle underwent various renovations and improvements, evolving into the impressive medieval fortress that it is today.
Alnwick Castle has been the ancestral home of the Percy family, the Dukes of Northumberland, for over 700 years. The Percy family is one of the most prominent and historic noble families in England.
See also
Roman Empire | The Legend of King Arthur
Source
Le Morte Darthur | Sir Thomas Malory, 1469-1470