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The thumbnails below are linked to larger pictures
Arundel Castle is a stately home as well as an ancient castle
and is located in a commanding position on a hill in West Sussex overlooking
the River Arun, originally constructed to defend the approaches to Sussex from
attack.
The Castle construction began as a motte (artificial mound )
and a gatehouse in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel a
loyal Baron of William the Conqueror. Subsequently the Castle became the family
home of the Dukes of Norfolk and their ancestors for over 850 years. The
present building is the result of massive restoration carried out by the 15th
Duke of Norfolk between 1875 and 1900. It was one of the first English country
houses to be fitted with electric light, lifts and central heating. The
building plan bears a great similarity with Royal Windsor Castle.
The
results of all this history are housed in the Castle in the form of fine
furniture dating from the 16th century, tapestries, clocks, and fine paintings
by Van Dyck, Gainsborough, Mytens, Reynolds and others. This combined with the
magnificent views of beautiful Sussex downland and out to sea, plus 30 acres of
grounds including several gardens, make for an excellent day
out.
Arundel is located off the A27 South Coast road between Chichester
and Brighton.
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