Rare chance to see ancient account of Battle of Lincoln

Matthew Paris’s Chronica Majora is one of medieval England’s most important documents covering more than 800 years to the French invasion of 1216 - a time of rebellion and civil war, legendary knights and remarkable heroines.

Now, thanks to a loan agreement with Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, the document will be shown at Lincoln Castle for the first time, alongside Magna Carta, until May 25.

The precious manuscript contains the most famous and earliest known illustration of the 1217 Battle of Lincoln – a showdown that turned the tide of the war against the invaders and defined England’s future.

Paris’ illustration captures one of the defining moments of the battle. In it an archer’s arrows reign down on fleeing French Knights. A figure, thought to be the commander of the invading army, lies slain at the foot of the battlements.

Inspired by the great knight, William Marshall, the Royalists had scored a stunning victory, and the weakened French forces were defeated later that summer.

Professor Philippa Hoskin, Director of The Parker Library, Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, said: "The Chronica Majora is a remarkable manuscript telling a remarkable story. Matthew Paris was unique amongst monastic chroniclers in being a talented and spirited artist as well as a writer, and his image of the Battle of Lincoln vividly depicts the tension and urgency of events. 

“We are thrilled that this incredible document is being displayed in historic Lincoln and reaching a wider audience.”

Cllr Natalie Oliver, Executive Councillor for Culture at Lincolnshire County Council, added: “Magna Carta and the Chronica Majora are two of the most important documents in English history and to showcase them side by side for the first time at our incredible castle is an absolute privilege.

“It’s amazing to think that the famous scene depicted in the Chronica Majora happened just a few steps from the Magna Carta Vault some 809 years ago. This is a must-see document, which so vividly captures Lincoln and its castle’s important role in our national story."

The Chronica Majora is on display in the David P J Ross Magna Carta Vault – entry is included as part of a Lincoln Castle day ticket or annual pass. Book tickets at www.lincolncastle.com 

Pictured above and below are images of Matthew Paris' illustration of The Battle of Lincoln in The Chronica Majora ©Parker Library, Corpus Christi College, Cambridge.