What country is known for its castles?
The true epicenter is Wales, which features more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. From the northern mountains of Snowdonia to Swansea Bay in the south, castles that could have dropped out of Camelot shoot up everywhere.
What were the castles known for?
Castles could serve as a centre for local government, administration and justice. They were also used by powerful lords to display their wealth and power through lavish architectural styles and decoration.
Who built the castles?
The first castles were built by the Normans The great age of castles began almost 1,000 years ago and lasted for nearly 500 years. The Normans introduced the first proper castles, starting with the wooden Motte and Bailey castles, to England following their victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Who lived in castles?
During the late Middle Ages, from the 10th to the 16th centuries, kings and lords lived in castles. As well as the lord, the lady (his wife), and their family there were lots of staff. Some were important officials, such as the constable who took care of the castle when the lord was away.
What country has the best castle?
Castles popped up all over Europe to keep out both Vikings and Romans. Many castles still stand in France, Spain, and Great Britain today. Wales even has the highest number of castles per square mile. Still, no other country built as many castles as Germany.
What was inside a castle?
It was a was a home for its lord, his family and his followers. Inside the castle walls there might have been a magnificent hall, comfortable chambers and a beautiful chapel. Larger castles had their own fish ponds, orchards and vineyards, as well as gardens which supplied vegetables and herbs.
What is the most important part of a castle?
The drawbridge is one of the most important parts of a castle and one you’ve probably heard of before! A drawbridge was a type of bridge between the gatehouse and the opposite side of the moat. During raids, the drawbridge would be raised to keep invaders out.
What were the early versions of castles called?
Motte and Bailiey castles were the earliest form of medieval castles built completely from scratch by the Normans. As their name suggests they had two parts the Motte and the Bailey. The Motte was a large hill made of earth on which was built a wooden keep or lookout.
What were the first castles called?
The first proper castles built in England were the Motte and Bailey castles. The term motte and bailey castle comes from Norman French words for mound and enclosed land.
What is the leader of a castle called?
A castellan is the title used in Medieval Europe for an appointed official, a governor of a castle and its surrounding territory referred to as the castellany.
What does the name castle mean?
fortified building
English: topographic name from Anglo-Norman French, Middle English castel ‘castle’, ‘fortified building or set of buildings’, especially the residence of a feudal lord (Late Latin castellum, a diminutive of castrum ‘fort’, ‘Roman walled city’).