On this episode of the PastCast, Chris Catling discusses the history of Dover Castle, a vast coastal fortification with some idiosyncratic features, particularly its Great Tower, built by King Henry II as an imposing national landmark. Chris, who is an archaeologist, author, and contributing editor of Current Archaeology, spoke with PastCast presenter, Calum Henderson.

You can read Chris Catling’s article on the castle in the latest issue of Current Archaeology, out on 1 July. Subscribers to The Past can read it before the magazine hits the newsstands, and can also access loads of extra content, include fascinating archive material on castles both in Britain and abroad.

Chris also references a new book published by English Heritage relating to the subject. The Great Tower of Dover Castle: History, Architecture and Context is edited by Paul Pattison, Steven Brindle, and David M Robinson, and is available to buy on its publisher’s website.

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