The Square Tower

This understated solid building has stood at the heart of Portsmouth since 1494. A brick building in a town built predominately of wood, it would have had an imposing dominance. Originally built as a residence for the Governor, in 1584 it was converted for use as a gunpowder store. It was used as a bargaining tool in the English Civil War, when Portsmouth was besieged by the Parliamentarians, and the Governor used the threat of blowing up the Tower (which would have flattened the town) to negotiate a peaceful surrender. From 1779 the Tower was used as a meat store to feed the ever growing Navy, and in 1822 a semaphore station was erected on its roof. A review of the Town’s defences in 1848 led to gun emplacements on the top (the semaphore having been removed) and it remained in defensive use until it came into the ownership of the City Council in the 1960s. There is a spectacular panoramic view from the roof which is accessible on certain dates during the summer months. For more information visit the Portsmouth Museum Service website: www.portsmouthmuseums.co.uk