Medieval Castles
Castles were more than just strong buildings. They were symbols of power, built for protection, control, and the defense of kingdoms in an age of constant conflict.
Types of Castles
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Motte and Bailey Castles
Early medieval castles built from earth and wood, featuring a raised mound (motte) and enclosed courtyard (bailey).
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Stone Keep Castles
Stronger castles built from stone with a central keep that served as the main defensive structure and last line of protection.
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Concentric Castles
Advanced castles designed with multiple layers of walls and towers, creating powerful defenses that made them extremely difficult to capture.
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Shell Keep Castles
Built on earlier motte foundations, shell keeps replaced wooden structures with circular stone walls for improved strength and durability.
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Enclosure Castles
Castles that relied on strong outer walls to enclose buildings and courtyards, focusing on defense without a large central keep.
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Quadrangular Castles
Designed in a square or rectangular layout, these castles featured corner towers and strong walls for balanced and efficient defense.