Revealed during renovations of Durham Castle, the artwork could date back to the late 13th to early 14th centuries
Dr Andrew Ferrara, and student Nattakrit Wanthanom, look at the section of medieval wall painting uncovered at Durham Castle(Image: North News)
A previously hidden medieval wall painting at Durham Castle has been uncovered by university archaeologists. The artwork, which was revealed during renovations of the landmark building, could date back to the late 13th to early 14th centuries, at least 700 years ago.
It was covered by plasterwork and 1950s wall panelling, and is made up of an outlined masonry pattern with a central flower and stem motif. Experts from Durham University say that this decoration confirms that the section of the castle, known since the 19th century as the Senate Suite, was a ‘high-status area’ in the medieval period.
Further research is now being carried out to see what the painting could teach about the history of the castle, which was once the seat of the Prince Bishops of Durham. Current investigations have revealed an extensive level of redecoration in the last 1,000 years.
Project lead and Career Development Fellow Andrew Ferrara, of the university’s Department of Archaeology, said: “The uncovering of this fragment of medieval wall painting is an absolutely sensational discovery. It’s an incredibly rare survival in such an important castle site and really underscores the power and status of the medieval bishops of Durham.”
Founded in 1072, Durham Castle forms part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside Durham Cathedral, and it is now home to the University College. Approximately 1,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students are based there, with some even living in the castle.
Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden of Durham University, also said: “Durham Castle has been a living space of learning and community for almost 1,000 years. To make a wonderful discovery such as this medieval painting on our own doorstep is further evidence of Durham’s very special history and heritage.
“Together with Durham Cathedral we are proud custodians of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will continue to explore, safeguard and renew this historic site for future generations.”
The work was led by the Durham Castle Research Group, supported by the university’s Heritage 360 (H360) network. Discussions and consultations were had with Durham County Council and Historic England, both before and throughout the investigation works.
Martin Lowe, Historic England Inspector of Historic Buildings and Areas, added: “This is a beautiful and rare detail of Durham Castle, uncovered thanks to some very careful work. We look forward to seeing the findings of the research into this important discovery.”
People interested in learning more about the archaeology at Durham Castle can do so as part of the County Durham and Darlington Archaeological Day, on Saturday, March 21, from 10.15am to 4.30pm, at Durham University. For more information and details on the event, visit the university’s website here.
Did you know you can make ChronicleLive a preferred source of North East news in Google, which will mean you get more of our breaking news, exclusives, and must-read stories straight away? Here’s more information about what this means and how to do it – you can also do it straight away by clicking here.
ChronicleLive has created a dedicated WhatsApp community for breaking news and our biggest stories. You can join this WhatsApp community here. It will keep you up-to-date with news as it breaks and our top stories of the day sent directly to your phone.