Over to Dover

Once again major historic events have occurred in the same place. This time our intersection is in Dover. The legendary White Cliffs are the symbol of this Channel port in Kent. The city is only 21 miles across the water from France and has played a role both against and in support of Britain's closest neighbor.

Dover Castle, high on a hill is the centerpiece of the city. Whether serving as the first line of defense from an attack by the French during the middle ages or as the launching point for European invasions during both World Wars the castle stands as a silent witness of history. If you prefer older history, it is here also. The Anglo-Saxon church of St. Mary stands near the edge of the hill next to the Roman Pharos, one of the oldest standing lighthouses in the world. This one was used by the Romans to aid navigation across the English Channel.

 

Inside the castle walls the Great Tower re-creates the world of the Angevin Dynasty. From Henry II and his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine to their sons Richard the Lionheart and King John, the family drama plays out like a reality TV show.

Underneath the castle is a network of tunnels. Originally built by the forces of Louis of France as they laid siege to the castle the tunnels have served a variety of purposes. During the Napoleonic wars the tunnels were expanded and used as barracks for the military. The 20th century saw the tunnels re-figured again this time as a WWII hospital and as the naval operation command center. It was from here that Operation Dynamo, the plan to rescue the British Army from Dunkirk, was organized and executed. During the cold war the tunnels were transformed into one of Britain's seats of Government in case of a Nuclear Attack.

Whether you arrive by ship or by plane the Cliffs and the Castle are physical symbols that NOW you are in England.

There'll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover

Tomorrow, Just you wait and see

There'll be love and laughter, And peace ever after

Tomorrow, When the world is free