There have been fortifications on the site of Lancaster Castle since Roman times, however the shape of the current fort started in the 1100's. King John is said to have held Court at Lancaster Castle. The main gateway, named after John O' Gaunt, is thought to date from 1405 - slightly after his time. The statue in the niche above the gateway is by Claude Nimmo and is relatively modern, dating from 1826. There have been many famous trials and executions at the Castle. There were more death sentences handed down at Lancaster Castle than any other Court in England, except Old Newgate in London. Three thousand people were deported to Australia from Lancaster. The Castle has had many purposes but has always served as a prison. Up until 1617 it was the only prison in Lancashire and is now said to be the oldest serving prison in Europe.