Built in the 11th century atop the foundations of the Roman Temple of Claudius, Colchester Castle is one of the most haunted castles in Britain, steeped in centuries of bloodshed, imprisonment, and witch trials. The most infamous spirit is James Parnell, a Quaker imprisoned in 1656 who died after being forced to climb a rope for food — his ghost is said to moan in pain and wander the dungeons. Apparitions of tortured women, believed to be victims of Matthew Hopkins, the Witchfinder General, are seen in shadowy corners and near the medieval prison cells. Staff and visitors report phantom footsteps, cold spots and disembodied voices, especially in the vaults and eastern wall.