BattlefieldsRevolt of the Earls — Norwich Castle Siege 1075
Medieval

Revolt of the Earls — Norwich Castle Siege 1075

1075
England
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Ralph de Gael and garrison
Forces
Emma de Gael garrison
VS
Victor
Royal forces (Norman crown)
Forces
Royal forces under Lanfranc and Odo of Bayeux besieging
Outcome
Castle held three months; Ralph de Gael escaped; Emma surrendered on terms
The Battle

History & Significance

Ralph de Gael, Earl of Norfolk, rebelled against William I in 1075 as part of the Revolt of the Earls. When royal forces under Lanfranc and Odo of Bayeux besieged Norwich Castle, Ralph de Gael escaped by sea to Brittany. His wife Emma held the castle for three months before negotiating honourable terms. The castle held out without external relief but ultimately submitted when all hope of succour was gone.

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