IT’S an era in Colchester’s history which is often overlooked because of the richness of its Roman past.

But that’s all about to change, thanks to the opening of the Medieval Mind: Part 1 at Colchester Castle. The exhibition looks into a period of time shrouded in darkness and barbarity.

One of the star attractions on display is Henry V’s charter to the town, dating back to 1413.

Other highlights include a rare collection of gold coins, one of which featured a ship to show the English victory over the French at the naval Battle of Sluys in 1340.

Philip Wise, heritage manager for Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service, said: “One of the things I wanted to achieve with the exhibition was to show the huge changes which have been made in art and literature during the period.

“I think many people’s ideas of medieval England are that it was quite sparse and desperate, but that wasn’t the case.”

The exhibition reveals the true colour and achievement of a fascinating period in our history. It explores themes such as civic pride, the regal image, religious art and the natural world.

Covering the period from the Norman conquest, in 1066, to the dissolution of the monasteries, in 1539, the exhibition showcases stunning objects which allow people to explore the workings of the medieval mind.

Jewellery, paintings, sculptures, exquisite examples of church art, and personal items owned by ordinary individuals are featured.

Many of the objects have not been on public display in Colchester before.

They are drawn from museums and collections across East Anglia, including the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, Norwich Castle Museum and Ipswich School.

Philip said: “We have an embarrassment of riches and this is a small selection of the wealth of material which is held by the museums in the east of England.

“I would go as far as to say this exhibition is of huge importance, containing a number of articles of national significance.”

One such exhibit is the painting of the Green Lady of St Osyth, rescued from St Osyth Priory.

“It’s a terrific example of English alabaster work,” said Philip.

Henry V’s charter, which dates later than Richard I’s initial royal charter to the town, contains some spectacular images, such as the patron saint of Colchester, St Helena, and the town’s coat of arms.

Philip said: “It’s the earliest representation of the borough arms and portrays St Helena, even at this early stage, as an important figure in the town.

“Legend had it she was born in Colchester, so this document is very important.”

Philip said one of the most important aspects of the exhibition was opening up the castle crypt, where religious services would have taken place in medieval times.

He added: “I think people sometimes forget how old the castle is when they walk through the park.

“That’s why I wanted to open this space up and bring the architecture of the building into the exhibition.

“When people come here they will have a new view of the castle.

“It is truly remarkable what is held in store in East Anglia’s museums, and this has been a welcome opportunity to put these treasures on public display.”

* The Medieval Mind: Part 1, Art Treasures from East Anglia, runs until July 3 at Colchester Castle.

The second phase of the exhibition, the Medieval Mind: Part 2, will then follow and will run until the end of the year, featuring new exhibits, including some special, as yet undisclosed, star attractions.