The symbol of Richard’s military might was the impressive castle of Château-Gaillard, on a high cliff above the right bank of the river Seine – the ‘rock of Andelys’ – which he built during 1196, perhaps inspired by the mountain-top stronghold in which he had been incarcerated in Germany, or by the great castles of the Holy Land. Its name meant ‘saucy castle’ and its very existence was an affront, as well as an obstacle, to the French King and his ambitions. It blocked the approaches to Rouen, fairly and squarely.
Philip was appalled when he first saw it, but joked bravely, ‘If its walls were made of iron, I would still storm them’.
Richard’s reply, very much in character, was ‘By God’s throat, if its walls were built of butter, I would still hold them.’
Source:
Seward, Desmond. “The Death of Richard.” Eleanor of Aquitaine. New York: Times , 1979. 207-8. Print.
Further Reading:
Richard I of England / Richard Cœur de Lion (Richard the Lionheart) / Oc e No (Yes and No)
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