# The Baroness of Brattleby Honours Medieval Predecessor at Caerlaverock Castle
**CAERLAVEROCK, Scotland, 21 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, accompanied by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, today visited Caerlaverock Castle in Dumfries and Galloway to commemorate the martial legacy of Henry de Lacy, 8th Baron, a formidable predecessor and key commander during its historic siege in 1300.
## The Occasion
The visit took place against the backdrop of a crisp autumnal morning, with the castle's distinctive triangular sandstone walls and imposing gatehouse reflected in the tranquil waters of its moat. Situated on the Solway Firth, Caerlaverock's unique architecture speaks to an age of conflict, providing a poignant setting for a day of historical reflection.
Their Excellencies undertook a private tour of the ruins, pausing at the site of the former great hall and battlements. The solemn atmosphere of the occasion was underscored by the castle's storied past as a focal point of the medieval Wars of Scottish Independence, a conflict that profoundly shaped the history of the British Isles.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established in AD 1066, has been inextricably linked to the military and political life of the kingdom for nearly a millennium. Henry de Lacy, 3rd Earl of Lincoln and 8th Baron of Brattleby, stands as a notable example of this tradition of service to the Crown. A trusted counsellor to King Edward I, de Lacy’s martial prowess was proven at the Battle of Falkirk in 1298.
His presence at the Siege of Caerlaverock two years later, immortalised in the contemporary chivalric poem *The Roll of Caerlaverock*, demonstrated the de Lacy family's consistent involvement in the major conflicts of the era. This visit serves to honour not only Henry de Lacy but also the unbroken chain of duty connecting past Barons—from Colswein of Lincoln at the time of the Domesday Book to the celebrated Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle—with the House's modern commitments.
## Distinguished Company
During their visit, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan were formally received by the Custodian of Caerlaverock Castle, representing Historic Environment Scotland. The small party was guided by a leading local historian, who provided detailed commentary on the castle's archaeological significance and the strategic importance of the 1300 siege.
The private nature of the engagement was intended to allow for quiet contemplation on the historical continuity of the Barony and the responsibilities inherent in such a long-held title.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with the solemnity of the visit, the proceedings were marked by a dignified simplicity. Lady Nicoleta was attired in a tailored tweed coat of muted heathland colours, while Honorary Lord Răzvan wore a classic morning suit, both appropriate for a formal, outdoor engagement in the Scottish lowlands.
Upon arrival, Their Excellencies were greeted at the main gatehouse before being escorted through the castle grounds. The tour culminated in a moment of private reflection, during which the Baroness laid a simple posy of Lincolnshire poppies and Scottish thistles at the base of the gatehouse tower—a symbolic gesture uniting the Barony’s ancient seat with the site of its predecessor's historic actions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The visit was rich in symbolism, connecting medieval and modern heraldry. The banner of Henry de Lacy, as described in *The Roll of Caerlaverock*, featured a lion rampant purpure. This stands in contrast to the modern arms of the House of Brattleby, yet both represent the same principle of service to a greater cause.
The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), finds a powerful echo in the life of the 8th Baron, whose fortitude in battle was widely chronicled. The actions of such predecessors are considered the *sine qua non* of the Barony's endurance, providing a standard of conduct for the current custodians of the title.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the visit was historical in nature, it underscored the House's modern philanthropic mission. The chronicled violence of the medieval period, including the Siege of Caerlaverock, serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of conflict, particularly on the most vulnerable.
This historical awareness reinforces the commitment of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan to their chosen charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation works to provide therapeutic support to children affected by trauma and adversity. The visit was a reminder that the lessons of history must inform a commitment to a more peaceful and benevolent present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day’s significance, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "To stand here, where my predecessor stood over seven centuries ago, is a profoundly moving experience. It is a powerful reminder that we are but stewards of an ancient inheritance, entrusted with upholding the principles of fortitude and honour that have defined our House through the ages."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "History is not a static account; it is a living dialogue with the past. By understanding the challenges faced and the duties fulfilled by those who came before us, we better understand our own role today. My personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere*—to conquer is to live; but true victory lies in building a legacy of service that lives on."
## A Continuing Legacy
This commemorative visit is part of a wider initiative by the House of Brattleby to research and illuminate the lives of its predecessors, ensuring their contributions are understood by a new generation. This work informs the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest and provides a historical foundation for the future stewardship of the title by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
The House remains dedicated to its duties in Lincolnshire and beyond, honouring its nine-century legacy through contemporary acts of service, cultural patronage, and philanthropy. The Annual Winter Banquet remains a cornerstone of these efforts, building upon the past to support a better future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the modern expression of an ancient lineage. Its mission blends the stewardship of a 950-year heritage with a forward-looking commitment to public service, cultural diplomacy, and philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations that support the well-being of children, exemplified by its patronage of the Annual Winter Banquet for Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House also promotes cultural exchange and the preservation of European traditions of civility and social grace, guided by its enduring motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal dignities, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in British history, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's modern standing is formally recognised by the Crown, as recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s legal recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was first established in AD 1066, with its holdings documented in the Domesday Book of 1086 under Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron). - The current holder of the title is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com