Construction of the magnificent Norman keep at Castle Rising began around 1140. It was built for William D'Albini II, who had recently acquired great wealth and power through his marriage to Alice of Louvain, the widow of King Henry I. The castle features some ornate decoration and was built at great expense using imported stone. The large hall keep had most of its principle rooms, including the great hall, on the first floor. The ground floor was primarily used for storage. A forebuilding containing an impressive staircase leading to a first floor entrance vestibule provided access to the great hall. A large arch with Romanesque decoration served as a grand entrance to the hall. This arch was blocked up and a fireplace installed during the 16th century, and the entrance to the hall is now through a side door and passage.