Castle Outreach-Clifford's Tower

Castle Outreach:
Clifford's Tower

The History
Clifford's Tower, is a superb example of a motte castle and shell keep. The 60 foot high motte, originally supported a timber keep and palisade, was eventually crowned with an unusual "quatrefoil" or "quadrilobate" shell keep. The massive mound (the motte) is completely artificial, built with layered clay, marl and gravel. The stone keep is one of England's most unique.

During the coronation of Richard the Lionheart. Mobs attacked the Jewish community who had come to honor their new king. Similar assaults spread throughout the realm, but, in York, Jewish residents were offered sanctuary inside the castle. Unfortunately, the timber refuge became the Jews' prison after they refused to allow the sheriff to enter the tower. The castle was assaulted, several Jewish leaders killed themselves and their families, and the timber keep burned to the ground.

What is Needed
The City of York Council has given permission for a London-based developer, Land Securities, to build "Coppergate II" - a shopping center on both sides of the River Foss in York. Crucially, this includes building right up to the Tower.

It is unacceptable that the castle and surrounding area be subsumed by a shopping center when many shops lay empty and indigenous traders are already under pressure. This shopping center will also ruin the look of the castle, and degrade its historic integrity.

More information may be found at: http://www.yorkcastle.com

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