A recent discovery at St. George's Guildhall in King's Lynn, Norfolk, has unveiled a doorway that could have been utilized by the renowned playwright William Shakespeare. The finding was made during ongoing conservation efforts at the historic theater, with the Guildhall's creative director noticing a peculiar shape in the wall, leading to the revelation of an archway.
According to the Borough Council of King's Lynn & West Norfolk, the archway is believed to date back to before 1405, as it is situated beneath the hall's medieval roof structure. Further investigation identified the arch as the entrance to the Guild Robing Room, where high-ranking Guild members would dress before gatherings.
The discovery has sparked excitement among researchers and historians, with the creative director expressing astonishment at the find. The Guildhall has previously yielded significant historical artifacts, including boards dating back to the early 15th century that may have been trodden upon by Shakespeare himself.
Records indicate that the Guildhall hosted its first recorded production, a nativity play, in January 1445. Throughout the late 1500s, the prestigious acting company The Queen's Men performed at the venue, with Shakespeare himself believed to have visited in 1592 or 1593 during a tour with his acting troupe.
Archaeological analysis suggests that the newly discovered archway likely provided access to a room where traveling players could change and store props. The room, believed to have been a low-status area, may have been made private using a hanging for privacy.
This latest discovery adds to the rich tapestry of history surrounding St. George's Guildhall and its connections to Shakespearean theater. As researchers continue to explore the site, more insights into the venue's past and its association with iconic figures like Shakespeare are expected to emerge.
