2-649-678 - Historic England/Heritage Images

Clifford's Tower, late 11th century, (c1990-2010). A reconstruction drawing of the motte, bailey & early timber buildings; late 11th century built on the orders of William I, Clifford's Tower, is the largest remaining part of York Castle, once the centre of government for the north of England. The 11th-century timber tower on top of the earth mound was burned down in 1190, after York's Jewish community, some 150 strong, was besieged here by a mob and committed mass suicide. The present 13th-century stone tower was probably used as a treasury and later as a prison.