The construction of Corfe Castle was begun in the 11th century and it has witnessed an often bloody history, with many prisoners coming to a grizzly end within its walls. Occupying a hilltop site between the larger East and West hills it was a strategic position for defence of the Dorset coast. The castle was deliberately toppled during a siege in 1646 and much of the stone was reused in the village that has grown around its base. Today the atmospheric ruin is in the care of English Heritage and is one of the more popular visitor attractions on the Isle of Purbeck.