Construction Begins
Windsor Castle was originally constructed by William the Conqueror in the decade following his conquest of England in 1066. The initial structure was a wooden motte-and-bailey castle.
1070
1170s
Henry II's Stone Reconstruction
King Henry II replaced the wooden fortifications of Windsor Castle with stone, establishing the castle's enduring structure.
1350s
Edward III's Expansion
King Edward III undertook significant expansions of Windsor Castle, transforming it into a grand Gothic palace, including the construction of St George's Chapel.
1475
Completion of St George's Chapel
St George's Chapel, an iconic part of Windsor Castle, was completed during the reign of King Edward IV. It has since been the site of many royal ceremonies.
1642-1651
English Civil War Impact
During the English Civil War, Windsor Castle was seized by Parliamentary forces and used as a military headquarters and prison.
1660
Restoration of the Monarchy
Following the Restoration of the Monarchy, King Charles II initiated extensive renovations to Windsor Castle, including the creation of the Long Walk and the remodeling of the State Apartments.
1820s
George IV's Renovations
King George IV embarked on a lavish renovation of Windsor Castle, employing architect Jeffry Wyatville to modernize the State Apartments and add the iconic Round Tower.
1840s
Victorian Updates
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert made Windsor Castle their principal residence, further enhancing the castle's interiors and gardens.
1917
During World War I, King George V changed the royal family’s name from Saxe-Coburg and Gotha to Windsor, solidifying the castle’s symbolic importance.
1939-1945
World War II Use
During World War II, Windsor Castle served as a refuge for the royal family, who used it as a safe haven from the London Blitz.
1992
Great Fire of Windsor Castle
A devastating fire broke out in Windsor Castle, causing extensive damage to the Upper Ward. The restoration took five years and cost around £36.5 million.
1997
Restoration Completed
The extensive restoration of Windsor Castle following the 1992 fire was completed, restoring the State Apartments to their former glory.
2011
Royal Wedding Venue
The wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton included a reception at Windsor Castle, highlighting its ongoing significance in royal life.
2018
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Wedding
Windsor Castle's St George’s Chapel hosted the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, attracting global attention.
2020
COVID-19 Pandemic Response
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip resided at Windsor Castle, using it as their primary residence for safety.
2022
Queen Elizabeth II's Passing
Queen Elizabeth II passed away in 2022, and Windsor Castle played a central role in the mourning and memorial ceremonies.
