ABSTRACT
Towering above the at rural landscape of Lincolnshire is the majestic Gothic cathedral of Lincoln that stands as testimony to both human piety and divine worship. Located on the summit of a limestone ridge, and within the precinct of the former Roman settlement, the iconic prole of the cathedral has served for centuries as a potent symbol of the city and its rich history. The dominance, however, of this venerated place of worship overshadows a less apparent topographical relationship that was gradually to dene the dual identity of Lincoln as both a pilgrimage destination and a stronghold for defence and incarceration. Partly revealed from the south aspect of the city (from Brayford Pool), the lofty
bell towers of the minster are counterpoised by the fortied walls of the ancient castle that culminate in the prominent ‘observatory tower’ on the south side of the east gate. Both cathedral and castle confront each other as two key monuments in Lincoln’s history, that speak of the various accords, disputes, collusions and conicts that have dened the relationships between church and state, canon and civil law, salvation and punishment.
