History of the city walls

The Romans

The Romans arrived at the spot where the Rivers Ouse and Foss meet in AD71

400 - 1068

We are not sure what happened between 400 and 1068. Did any of the Roman walls survive through this period? A grant of land made during the seventh century refers to the "city wall towards the south and a great gate towards the west".

11th Century

York Castle was built by William I in 1068

12th - 14th Century

The gateways through the defences in York are called 'bars'. The name 'bar' has its origins in the bars, or simple gates, which were used to block the gateways to keep people out

15th - 16th Century

Take a look inside Walmgate Bar

17th Century

Little is known about St Mary's Tower until 1644 when it was the subject of a heavy attack by the Parliamentarians

19th Century

The most sustained period of construction works for 600 years took place in the nineteenth century

20th Century

Today, the walls are still one of the York's most popular features.

Future

What does the future hold for the walls?