Magna Carta in the Castle

Last Saturday saw the first of several Conservation Days at Pontefract Castle which Wessex Archaeology is helping to deliver as part of its Key to the North project, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). This event also celebrated the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta. In 1215 John de Lacy, the lord of Pontefract Castle, was one of the barons who forced King John to sign the charter, and in recognition of this he attended The Magna Carta in the Castle event in person, and gave the crowds a lively talk about the Bad King John. 

 

As well as John de Lacy, Wessex Archaeology's Alexandra Grassam and Alix Sperr were also in attendance, directing our 'sandpit excavation' which provided children (and some adults) the opportunity to dig for real archaeological finds. Other activities included a pottery jigsaw challenge and a chance to make and decorate your own pot. In addition, everyone was given a flyer, designed by Wessex Archaeology's graphics team, which provided facts about the history of the castle, and other fun activities to do.

 

Further Conservations Days will be held on 4th July, 1st August and 12th September 2015.

 

For a full list of activities at Pontefract Castle please follow this link.