Specialist craftsmen have finished work on the former royal palace in Kings Clipstone, Nottinghamshire, which was built around 1164.
Parts of the ruin were in "imminent danger" of collapse because of centuries of erosion. The craftsmen mortared and tied together the failing masonry.
James Wright, author of the book Castles of Nottinghamshire
, said "King John's Palace is a tremendously important site. It's a medieval royal palace and you don't really get much more important than that. It was used as a meeting place for the kings of England to meet other royalty and as such it is of national and even international importance."This includes a meeting between Richard I and the Scottish King William I, as well as a meeting of Parliament in 1290 under Edward I. Documentary evidence shows that there were several buildings on the site, as well as stables large enough to accommodate 200 horses.
The £106,000 work was funded by English Heritage and Nottinghamshire County Council. Tim Allen, of English Heritage, said: "Thanks to the skills of specialist craftsmen, the ruins of this important medieval hunting lodge can be preserved and enjoyed for years to come."
Councillor Richard Butler, cabinet member for Environment and Sustainability at Nottinghamshire County Council, added: "This county already has a wonderful heritage. It is an honour to be able to further strengthen its history for future generations to enjoy."
