Visitors to Lincoln Castle now have the chance to see a stunning document from the Parker Library showing the role the city of Lincoln played in shaping the course of English history. Matthew Paris’s Chronica Majora (CCCC MS 016ii) is one of medieval England’s most important documents and transports us back 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 historic loan agreement with the College, the document is being shown at the castle for the first time, alongside Magna Carta, until 25 May 2026.

The manuscript contains the 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.

Despite the signing of Magna Carta that had attempted to limit the monarch’s powers, by 1215 the relationship between King John and many of the English barons had broken down. 

Weary of the high taxes and failed foreign conflicts that defined the king’s rule, the barons offered the English crown to Prince Louis of France, were he to help oust King John and defeat his Royalist forces.

By the eve of the Battle of Lincoln in May 1217, the picture looked bleak for Royalists like Nicola de la Haie, who as Constable of Lincoln Castle, had defended the stronghold for the crown for decades. Louis’ invading army had claimed half of the country, including most of Eastern England, had stormed the city and laid siege to the castle.

However, William Marshal, described as “the greatest knight in all the world”, and the Royalist army broke into the city and stunned the French forces with a surprise attack.The Battle of Lincoln proved a decisive turning point in the war. The French commander, Count Thomas of Perche, was killed, and many of the English Barons still loyal to Prince Louis were captured. The weakened French forces were defeated off the Kent coast in August 1217.

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

A remarkable manuscript telling a remarkable story 

Professor Philippa Hoskin, Director of The Parker Library, 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 a 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 to the vault is included as part of a Lincoln Castle day ticket or annual pass, which also lets you explore the Victorian Prison. You can book tickets on the Lincoln Castle website.