 Following the Norman Conquest in 1066, Southampton became the major port of transit between the then capital of England, Winchester, and Normandy.Southampton Castle was built in the 12th century and surviving remains of 12th-century merchants' houses such as "King John's House" and "Canute's Palace" are evidence of the wealth that existed in the town at this time.By the 13th century Southampton had become a leading port, particularly involved in the import of French wine in exchange for English cloth and wool.