Heatwave reveals hidden archeaology under Midland castle
MYSTERIOUS markings that date back to the 16th century have been revealed thanks to the recent heat wave.
Hidden for hundreds of years, the patterns are now visible because of the Saharan conditions that have produced parch marks in the grounds of Dudley Castle.
The markings trace the footings of long lost historic buildings and a wall erected in the 1500s.
The circle is evidence of an elaborate water feature from the early 1900s.
But there is also the yellowed imprint of a mysterious building – a structure that has baffled experts.
Former castle keeper Adrian Durkin laughs: “The large circular feature in the centre will be remembered by some as a garden feature.
“I haven’t seen the wall line across the far end of the courtyard for about 30 years.
“The wall would have enabled food and provisions to be bought to the kitchen without having to go through the main courtyard.
“But it’s the third marking near the base of the keep which is a real mystery.
“I’ve never seen it before, we have not excavated the area and I don’t know what it is.”
Amy Hickman, who runs Horrible Histories workshops and ghost walks at the castle, was surprised by the discovery.
“We have seen some of these parch marks faintly in the past, but they have never emerged so prominently,” she said.
“It’s all down to this exceptionally hot weather which is causing history to re-emerge.
“These markings are like footprints from the past.”
The castle dates back to the Norman conquest, but back then it was a wooden fort. It was rebuilt in stone during the 12th century, then torn down on Henry II’s orders.
The castle was constructed again in the second half of the 13th century and John Dudley, 1st Duke of Northumberland, added a number of outbuildings in the 1500s.