The Castle, West Range, Palace Green, Durham
Construction of a castle at Durham was begun around 1072. It was built as a symbol of Norman power in the north. It re-established William I's control after the defeat of his army who had occupied the town. The earliest castle building was built by Waltheof, the new Earl of Northumberland. Following his murder in 1075 it was continued by Bishop Walcher. It was the principal residence of the Bishops of Durham throughout the Medieval period. Since 1837, soon after the foundation of the University of Durham, it has been used as a residential college.
