Dover Castle, perched atop the iconic White Cliffs, is a site rich with history, offering more than just breathtaking views. Among its many fascinating features are one of the few standing Roman lighthouses, or “pharos,” and an intricate labyrinth of underground tunnels. The Romans originally built two lighthouses at Dover to guide ships across the Channel, and one of them remains today, integrated into the castle’s structure.
The castle has been a crucial defensive stronghold for centuries due to its strategic location, being the closest point in England to continental Europe. Its tunnels, which have seen various uses throughout history, including as a military command center during World War II, add to its mystery and historical significance.
When William the Conqueror triumphed at the Battle of Hastings in the 11th century, he fortified the English coastline, incorporating the ancient Roman lighthouse from the 1st century AD into the construction of Dover Castle. Over time, the structure underwent modifications, with additional stonework added in the 14th century. Yet, you can still find remnants of the original Roman pharos embedded in the fortress, making Dover Castle a rare site for those interested in both medieval and Roman history.
Equally intriguing are the tunnels beneath the castle. Originally carved into the white chalk cliffs during the Napoleonic Wars to accommodate 2,000 troops, they became a military resource once again during World War II. The tunnels served as a strategic air raid shelter, a command center, and even housed a hospital. Visitors today can still see the old operating theater, a relic of the castle’s extensive military history.
Today
Today, Dover Castle spans 70 acres and is managed as a tourist attraction by English Heritage. Visitors can explore over 2,000 years of history, from the ancient Roman lighthouse to the medieval and wartime fortifications. With guided tours, you can even venture into the labyrinthine tunnels beneath the castle, where echoes of its military past come to life.
