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オックスフォード城のモット

オックスフォード城マウンド： visita-motte & Prison 訪問ガイド

日付：2025/06/14

序章

オックスフォード城マウンドは、オックスフォードで最も象徴的で歴史的に重要なランドマークの1つです。ほぼ1千年にもわたる歴史を持ち、イングランドの建築、権力、司法の変遷を鮮やかに辿ることができます。ノルマン・コンクエスト後の設立から、後に郡の刑務所としての役割を果たすまで、オックスフォード城は英国史の重要な瞬間に立ち会ってきました。今日、それはよく保存された指定記念物であり、グレードI指定建造物として、中世の陰謀と現代の訪問者体験を融合させています。このガイドでは、オックスフォード城マウンドへの訪問に関する包括的な情報を提供します。歴史、チケット、営業時間、バリアフリー、旅行のヒントなどを含みます（History Tools; Oxford Castle & Prison; Art Facts）。

ノルマン様式の基盤と初期の建設
ダフィー家と王室との関係
建築の進化：木造から石造りへ
無政府状態と中世の重要性
拡張と衰退
内戦と刑務所への変容
ビクトリア朝の再建と現代の衰退
遺産としての地位と現代の利用
オックスフォード城訪問：営業時間、チケット、バリアフリー
主要なアトラクションとアクティビティ
旅行のヒントと周辺の観光スポット
よくある質問（FAQ）
結論と要約
参考文献

ノルマン様式の基盤と初期の建設

オックスフォード城マウンドの建設は、1071年にウィリアム征服王とその男爵であるロバート・ダフィーの指揮の下で始まりました。サクソン時代の城壁都市の西端に、古典的なマウンド・アンド・ベイリー様式で建設され、テムズ川とキャッスル・ミル・ストリームを自然の防御施設として利用しました。高さ約60フィートの大きな土の丘（マウンド）は、元々木造のキープが頂上にあり、ベイリーは木製の柵で囲まれていました（History Tools; Art Facts）。

ダフィー家と王室との関係

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possession royal possession royal possession royal possession royal possession royal possess Oxford Castle, although a royal possession, was administered by the D’Oyly family, hereditary constables who shaped its early development. Their stewardship cemented the castle’s role as a regional power center, even as Norman kings favored nearby Beaumont Castle (Oxfordshire Live).

建築の進化：木造から石造りへ

12世紀までに、城の木造建築は石造りの要塞に置き換えられました。これには、10面を持つシェル・キープや頑丈なカーテン・ウォールが含まれます。サクソン起源の可能性もあるセント・ジョージズ・タワーは、中心的な防御施設となりました。13世紀には、堀のあるバービカンが追加され、この地の防御施設の継続的な適応を示しています（Art Facts）。

無政府状態と中世の重要性

無政府状態（1135〜1153年）の間、オックスフォード城は皇帝マチルダの王室の要塞として機能しました。彼女は1142年に、雪に紛れるために白い衣装に身を包んで脱出したとされています。城のセント・ジョージズ教会はカレッジ教会となり、ジェフリー・オブ・モンマスのような学者を惹きつけました（History Tools）。

拡張と衰退

城は13世紀と14世紀に継続的な投資を受け、ヘンリー3世とエドワード3世が修繕と拡張に資金を提供しました。しかし、軍事技術が進歩するにつれて、その防御的重要性は薄れ、機能は administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and justice administration and 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strastratrationstrats strastrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationtrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationtrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstrationstration, struction, an administrative center, and a seat of local justice. The castle’s imposing presence was further enhanced by the incorporation of the Saxon church of St George into its walls, with the church’s tower—now known as St George’s Tower—serving as a gatehouse and watchtower (Insider Oxford).

The Anarchy and Empress Matilda In 1142, Matilda, daughter of Henry I and rival to Stephen of Blois for the throne, was besieged at Oxford Castle. Legend has it that she escaped by night, dressed in white to blend with the snow and crossing the frozen moat (Oxford Scholastica; Insider Oxford).
Magna Carta and Later Medieval Period The castle was allegedly involved in discussions leading to the Magna Carta in 1215 (Oxford Scholastica). By the 14th century, its military importance declined, and it became a center for county administration and justice.

2.3 Early Modern and Modern History

Civil War and Royalist Stronghold During the English Civil War (1642–1651), Oxford Castle served as a Royalist stronghold, reinforcing the city when it was the Royalist capital (Oxford Visit).
Transformation into a Prison The castle was converted into Oxford Gaol, operating as a prison until 1996. It was notorious for harsh conditions (Oxford Castle & Prison; The Oxford Magazine).

2.4 Conservation and Modern Use

Following its closure, extensive conservation efforts led to its reopening as Oxford Castle & Prison in 2006. It now features tours, exhibitions, dining, a hotel, and event spaces (England Explore).

3. Architectural Features and Surviving Structures

3.1 The Motte

The motte, an 18-meter high earthwork, is topped by trees and offers views of the city. It includes a rare vaulted well chamber within (Oxford Castle & Prison).

3.2 St George’s Tower

This stone tower, possibly of Saxon origin, served as a gatehouse and watchtower. Visitors can climb its 101 steps for panoramic views (The Oxford Magazine).

3.3 The Crypt and Chapel

The crypt, the sole surviving part of St George’s Chapel, is a 900-year-old atmospheric space that offers a glimpse into medieval life (Oxford Castle & Prison).

3.4 Prison Buildings

Period prison cells and exhibitions detail the castle’s history as a place of incarceration and the evolution of the penal system (The Oxford Magazine).

4. Cultural and Historical Significance

4.1 A Witness to National History

Oxford Castle Motte has been central to key national events, including the Norman Conquest, The Anarchy, the English Civil War, and Magna Carta negotiations (Oxford Scholastica).

4.2 Architectural Heritage

It is a rare example of a motte-and-bailey fortress in an urban setting, with features offering insights into medieval construction and urban development (Historic England).

4.3 Literary and Popular Culture

The castle’s atmospheric setting and legends have inspired ghost stories and made it a location for films and television (England Explore).

4.4 Community and Conservation

The site’s transformation reflects changing societal attitudes towards heritage and justice, with ongoing conservation ensuring its relevance (England Explore).

5. Visitor Experience: What to See and Do

5.1 Guided Tours

Tours are the only means of entry and are led by costumed guides, covering the castle’s history and including access to:

St George’s Tower: Climb 101 steps for city views.
The Crypt: Explore the candle-lit medieval crypt.
Prison Cells: See preserved 18th-century cells and exhibitions.
The Motte: Ascend the mound and discover the well chamber. Tours last about an hour. Children under five are not permitted in St George’s Tower (Oxford Castle & Prison; Oxford Castle & Prison).

5.2 Special Events and Activities

The castle hosts events such as Ghost Tours, historical re-enactments, and educational workshops (Oxford Visit; England Explore).

5.3 Facilities and Amenities

Gift Shop: Offers historically inspired gifts and souvenirs.
Café and Restaurants: Dining options are available on-site.
Boutique Hotel: The former prison has been converted into a hotel.
Accessibility: The site is accessible for wheelchair users, though some historic areas have limited access (England Explore).

6. Practical Information for Visitors

6.1 Location and Directions

Address: 44-46 Oxford Castle, Oxford, OX1 1AY.
Transport: Near Oxford rail station, bus stops, city center parking, and Park & Ride facilities (The Oxford Magazine).

6.2 Opening Times and Admission

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00–17:30 (last tour 16:20).
Admission: Guided tours only. Booking online in advance is highly recommended for preferred times and discounts (official website).
Ticket Prices: Vary by age and group size; discounts available. Children under 5 have restrictions.

6.3 Visitor Tips

Book Ahead: Tours often sell out.
Dress Comfortably: Prepare for climbing and uneven surfaces.
Photography: Generally allowed, but check with guides for restrictions.
Accessibility: Ground-level areas are accessible, but historic sites have limited access.
Events: Check the events calendar for activities.

7. Reviews and Visitor Feedback

Visitors praise the engaging tours, knowledgeable guides, and unique historical blend. The views from St George’s Tower and the crypt are highlights, with ghost tours and events being popular attractions (Oxford Castle & Prison; Oxford Visit).

8. Conclusion and Opinion

Oxford Castle Motte offers a compelling journey through nearly 1,000 years of history, making it an essential destination in Oxford. Its well-preserved structures, engaging narratives, and diverse programming provide a memorable and meaningful experience.

In my opinion, Oxford Castle Motte is a must-visit for its unique blend of history, architecture, and storytelling.