CASTLE CHARACTERISTICS

Medieval castles came in three main flavours, each one a natural evolution in defence

1 MOTTE

The earthen mound could be up to 30 metres high. Steep sides called the ‘scarp’ made it difficult for intruders to climb up.

2 WOODEN PALISADE

This surrounded the bailey to keep the enemy out and was used in conjunction with a ditch that ran around its edge.

3 BAILEY

This courtyard contained domestic buildings such as the kitchens and stables and areas where the livestock could graze.

4 STONE KEEP

Stronger than a wooden tower, the stone keep was the improved living quarters of the lord and the last line of defence.

5 MOAT

A wide, deep ditch was dug around the castle and filled with nearby water to prevent intruders from reaching the walls.

6 GREAT HALL

Here the lord of the castle could hold banquets, reinforcing his status in the area.

7 CURTAIN WALLS

The double layer of protective walls had to be thick enough to withstand bombardment and too high for attackers to climb over.

8 THE GATEHOUSES

These entry points were protected by a metal grill, or ‘portcullis’. Boiling oil was poured onto the enemy through ‘murder holes’ made in the ceiling.

9 DOMESTIC BUILDINGS

The kitchens, stables, a brewery and the water well were kept safe within the inner bailey.

10 TOWERS

Circular towers were strategically placed around the curtain walls to give archers a 360-degree view.