Why was Canterbury important to William of Normandy?

Answer 1

Canterbury was significant to William of Normandy because it was a major ecclesiastical center and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, who held considerable influence in England. Capturing Canterbury allowed William to assert control over a vital religious and administrative hub, thereby legitimizing his rule after the Norman Conquest in 1066. Additionally, the city's prominence provided a strategic advantage in consolidating power and facilitating the integration of Norman governance with English institutions. This helped solidify William's authority and the spread of Norman culture throughout England.