Mont Orgueil, also referred to as Gorey Castle, is a 13th century fortress that looks over the east of the island at Gorey harbour. The amazing fortress was built in 1212 under the Duchy of Normandy division and served as Jersey’s forefront of defence until it was replaced by Elizabeth Castle.
Elizabeth Castle overtook Mont Orgueil due to its ability to defend against the introduction of canons in the 1590’s. Mont Orgueil was saved from destruction by Sir Walter Raleigh and used a prison. The prison contained some of the men who signed the death warrant for Charles I in 1649, a few of whom died within its walls.
When St Helier prison was built at the end of the 17th century, the castle was then used as military accommodation and welcomed many royals through its walls. Since 1929, the castle has been open as a museum and is a great place to gain an insight into the island’s fascinating past.
