Market Square

St. Lawrence's Church

Towcester, the site of the Roman military town of Lactodorum fell into disrepair when the Romans left Britain. In 998 it was refortified by the Saxons during their conflict with the Danes. The Normans were the next to leave their mark by rebuilding the Saxon church for the good of the soul of the Conqueror. During the Civil War the town, the only Royalist stronghold in Northamptonshire, suffered the attentions of both sides. In more peaceful tunes it became an important posting town on the main coaching route to Holyhead and Ireland.

The Church, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, occupies the site of a Roman basilica and a previous Saxon church. This venerable building has witnessed more of English history than any other in the town. Its rebuilding in honour of Saint Wandregisile was started in the 11th Century by order of William the Conqueror, and it is the handiwork of many craftsmen from then until the present day. Its most famous incumbents were Benedetto Gaetani who became Pope Boniface VIII patron of the great Florentine artist Giotto, and Archdeacon William Sponne the town's great benefactor.