MDE20877 - Countisbury (Place)

Countisbury was 'Contesberia' in Domesday. It was held by William Capra. Before the conquest it was held by Ailmer. Later it was given to Forde Abbey by Henry de Tracy. It continued with the Abbey until the dissolution. Early descents given. [1] The settlement of Countisbury was mentioned as 'Contesberia' in 1086, 'Cuntesberia' in 1177, 'Cundeburye' in 1238 and 'Cunisbere in 1577. [2] Countisbury may be a rare survival of British culture after the Saxon colonisation of Devon. The name derives from the british word 'Cunet' meaning hill and the Old English word 'Burg' suggesting a fortification. NT ref. 100260 [3] Countisbury is a natural defensive site & was the scene of a battle in 878AD between English and Dane when it was referred to as 'Arx Cynuit'. The name probably derives from a Celtic personal name which includes the Celtic element 'Cuno' meaning 'hound'. [4] The historic core of Countisbury is depicted on the Countisbury Tithe Map and later First and Second Edition 25 inch Ordnance Survey maps. [5-7] An earthwork platform was noted to the southwest of the church during a watching brief in 2021. This may have formed part of the historic core of the settlement. The HER GIS data has been amended appropriately. [8]