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Kate gave us a very interesting illustrated talk on the work being done by the Oxford Preservation Trust to create the Heritage Complex at the old castle and prison site.
She briefly explained the Society's purpose of trying to ensure that Oxford's past would not be blown away by development , efforts which have seen tracts of land bought to prevent the views of the city being ruined and the saving of buildings from destruction.
The earliest part of the historical buildings in the Castle/Prison complex to survive is the St George's Tower, dating from the 11th Century. Whether the castle pre-dated the Normans or not is a matter of some debate but the surviving crypt of St George's Chapel is 12t Century and definitely part of the Norman castle. The castle gradually declined but the Mound has stayed as a land mark and within this earthwork like is a vaulted well chamber which is still accessible and will be part of the attractions of the future. As old structures declined new parts were added with the Debtors Tower being build in the 18th century. The Victorian buildings transformed the old area and are an integral part of the new complex.
Within the complex there will be a museum which will have a range of themes. The towers, Crypt and Mound will all be accessible, although visitors to some parts might have to be part of an organised tour.
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