The title "King of the Castle" often evokes thoughts of medieval power struggles, legends, and towering fortresses. However, throughout history, the identities of the first rulers and those regarded as "evil" have been shaped by various sources, tales, and perspectives. Let's explore the intriguing history of the first king of a castle and delve into the concept of "the evil king."
While there is no definitive historical figure who can be called the "first king of a castle," the idea of a king ruling over a castle evolved over centuries. Castles themselves were built for defense and as symbols of power, and early castles often served as fortresses for local rulers or warlords. The first true "king of a castle" could be seen in the early medieval period, especially with the rise of feudalism.
In the context of Europe, during the early Middle Ages (5th to 10th century), kings and lords would construct castles as symbols of their authority. One of the most famous early examples would be Charlemagne, the King of the Franks and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Though not necessarily associated with a single castle, Charlemagne's reign marked the early foundation of castles as symbols of royal power. As his empire expanded, the construction of fortified residences became a symbol of his dominion.
However, when it comes to actual castle building in the more recognizable form we think of today, it was after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 that castles truly came into prominence. William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy, can be considered one of the first kings whose reign was centered around castles. After his victory at the Battle of Hastings, William ordered the construction of many castles to solidify his control over England. The Tower of London, built during this time, is one of the most iconic castles in the world. shutdown123