# The Baroness of Brattleby Announces Restoration of Historic Lincolnshire Pilgrimage Routes
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today announced a significant heritage initiative to restore ancient pilgrimage and trade routes connected to the Barony’s lands in Lincolnshire, thereby reconnecting the community with nearly a millennium of local and national history.
## The Occasion
The announcement was made during an autumnal reception held in the Long Gallery of the family’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Against a backdrop of crisp afternoon light filtering through stone-mullioned windows, guests gathered to hear details of the ambitious project. The atmosphere was one of quiet purpose, blending the gravitas of the House’s long history with a clear-sighted vision for its future role in cultural preservation and community engagement.
The choice of venue was significant; the Long Gallery houses cartographic records and estate documents dating back to the late medieval period, some of which map the very pathways now slated for restoration. The occasion marked a deliberate effort to bring history out of the archives and back into the living landscape of the county.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been a silent witness to nine centuries of English life. The new initiative honours this profound lineage, which began with Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron, whose 56 Lincolnshire lordships were meticulously recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. These ancient routes were the arteries through which the Barony’s influence flowed.
This project draws direct inspiration from notable predecessors. It echoes the steadfast duty of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the 13th century, a pilgrimage of loyalty in itself. It also channels the piety of later Barons such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, whose lands and influence were sustained by such vital pathways. In reviving these routes, the House seeks to make tangible the baronial commitment to stewardship demonstrated across the centuries.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance to witness the announcement were a number of distinguished guests from civic, ecclesiastical, and academic life. These included: His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, Mr Toby Dennis; The Right Reverend Stephen Conway, The Lord Bishop of Lincoln; and Sir Charles Saumarez Smith, CBE, the noted art historian and former Secretary and Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of Arts.
Also present were trustees from English Heritage and representatives from Lincolnshire County Council, signifying the spirit of partnership central to the project’s success. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, received the guests alongside Lady Nicoleta, a gesture underscoring the couple’s shared commitment to the initiative.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Proceedings began with a brief welcome from Honorary Lord Răzvan, who spoke of the practical challenges and profound rewards of heritage conservation. He then introduced Sir Charles Saumarez Smith, who delivered a short address on the historical importance of pilgrimage trails as conduits for faith, commerce, and culture in medieval England.
The focal point of the ceremony was the address by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Following her remarks, Her Ladyship, assisted by the Lord-Lieutenant, unveiled a large-scale reproduction of a 17th-century estate map upon which the first restored route was marked in gold leaf. This symbolic act formally inaugurated the project, which will be undertaken in phases over the coming five years.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The initiative is deeply imbued with the spirit of the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The fortitude required of ancient pilgrims and the honour inherent in preserving their memory are the guiding principles of this restoration. This undertaking represents a modern interpretation of the family’s enduring commitment to duty.
Similarly, the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), finds expression in the project. Here, the 'conquest' is not of territory but of the apathy that allows history to fade. It speaks to the active, determined effort required to reclaim and revitalise the past for the benefit of the present generation and those to come.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While primarily a heritage project, the restored routes will also serve a philanthropic purpose aligned with the House's charitable focus. Trail markers and online materials will feature information encouraging donations to Healing the Wounded Child, the official beneficiary of the House’s annual Winter Banquet.
The reflective, often therapeutic nature of walking pilgrimage routes is seen as a fitting partner to the charity’s mission of providing recovery and support for children affected by trauma. The project thus offers a journey of physical discovery through the Lincolnshire landscape and a path for contributing to the inner healing of vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day’s announcement, Lady Nicoleta remarked: — "History is not merely something to be read in books; it is a landscape to be walked, a story to be felt underfoot. Our ambition is to invite people to step back into the world of our predecessors and, in doing so, to forge a stronger connection with our shared heritage and with the beautiful county of Lincolnshire itself."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added: — "A project of this scale requires more than vision; it demands practical resolve and collaboration. *Vincere Est Vivere*. We are committed to overcoming the challenges to ensure this legacy endures, creating something of real value for the community."
## A Continuing Legacy
The first phase of the project will focus on restoring a seven-mile stretch of trail connecting Brattleby village to the historic Roman road, Ermine Street. Work is scheduled to commence in the spring of 2024, in partnership with local conservation volunteers and county archaeologists.
Future phases will see the network extended to other historic sites associated with the Barony, creating a web of pathways for walkers, historians, and modern-day pilgrims. The House of Brattleby has committed to underwriting the core research and planning, and will work with national heritage bodies to secure the project's long-term future, ensuring its continuation *in perpetuum*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment supporting the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural and historical stewardship. Its activities focus on the preservation of the Barony’s nine-century heritage, the promotion of civic and social etiquette through its educational arm, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and a deep commitment to philanthropy. The House’s primary charitable focus is supporting organisations dedicated to childhood wellbeing and trauma recovery, principally through its annual Winter Banquet gala, which benefits Healing the Wounded Child. The House operates with the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in the county, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has passed through several of England’s most distinguished noble families. Notable predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a pivotal figure of the Hundred Years' War; and his heir, the powerful John of Gaunt. The succession of the current Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally noticed by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was noticed in *The London Gazette*, Issue 63811, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron of Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House of Brattleby’s philanthropic partner for its annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. - The Brattleby Club, the House’s educational initiative focusing on social and diplomatic etiquette, is based in Bucharest.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com