More figures that might be considered part of 'Hidden York', except that they are in a very prominent position at the top of Monk Bar in York. However, the height of Monk Bar means that their presence is not immediately obvious.
Monk Bar is one of the medieval entrances into the city through the city walls. It is the tallest and most ornate of the bars, and dates from the early 14th century. It was a self-contained fortress, with each floor capable of being defended. On the front of the bar is an arch supporting a gallery, including 'murder-holes' through which missiles and boiling water could be rained down upon attackers.
Monk Bar has the city’s only working portcullis, in use until 1970. Like the other main gateways, Monk Bar originally had a barbican on the front. This was demolished in 1825.
The rooms above the gateway have had various uses over the years, including as a home and as a jail for rebellious Catholics in the 16th century. Today it is the home of the Richard III Experience.
Monk Bar is topped by two turrets, and this shot shows one of them with its rather fearsome carved figures of city defenders with boulders to throw at anyone who might be attacking the city.
Beautiful capture. Those figures could scare anyone wanted to assault the Bar. Your story is very fascinating. The mention of Richard III excites me as I was very, very interested in his story, and still am.
Thank you both. They have been stood there a long time and are obviously a little tired, hence the steel rod on the back of the one on the left to hold him up!
Ian
November 1st, 2020
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Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
I wonder if these carved figures would really deter those attacking the city?
Ian
Thank you both. They have been stood there a long time and are obviously a little tired, hence the steel rod on the back of the one on the left to hold him up!
Ian