The Role of Castles in Europe’s Middle Ages

Introduction

• Castles dominated warfare and society in the Middle Ages.
• Unique features of medieval castles:
  • Refuge and military projection.
  • Lordly residence and symbol of power.
  • Center of justice and government.
• Castle ruins are reminders of the feudal world.

The Evolution of Castles

• No single blueprint for castles; each is unique.
• Key trends analyzed over four centuries.
• Feudalism: Birthplace in 9th century France, where royal authority faced crisis.

Feudal Structure

• Kings grant land (fief) to lords for loyalty and military service.
• Lords build fortified bases to impose authority - these are the first medieval castles.

Building the Perfect Castle

Location Considerations

• Dominant landscape, good views, defensible features (hills, river bends).
• Proximity to resources: stone, wood, soil, and fresh water/food sources essential.

Mott and Bailey Design

• Popular during the Norman conquest.
• Motte: Raised mound for defense; typically 8m high, 50m across, with a wooden palisade on top.
• Bailey: Enclosed area with important buildings (hall, stables, etc.) protected by a ditch and palisade.

Transition to Stone Castles

• Timber palisades replaced by stone curtain walls for better defense.
• Donjon (Keep): Larger stone towers for better security; typically rectangular, 2-4 storeys, 6m thick walls.
• Construction takes up to 10 years, cost prohibitive for many.

Types of Towers and Walls

Curtain Walls

• Should have crenellations for defense and flanking towers for archer advantage.
• Round towers preferred for structural integrity against stone-throwing attacks.

Gatehouse Defenses

• Strong gatehouse defenses with towers, multiple gates, and portcullises.
• Use of drawbridges and murder holes to protect against intruders.

Advanced Castle Features

Concentric Design

• Second curtain wall with an outer bailey for added defense.
• Water-filled moats enhance defense and provide aesthetics.
• Barbican adds another layer of defense at the entrance.

Decline of Castles

• By the 15th century, castles declined due to:
  • Rise of gunpowder artillery.
  • Transition from feudalism to centralized royal authority.
• Castles replaced by artillery forts and palaces.

Conclusion

• Castles reflect local landscape, military needs, and noble tastes.
• Notable examples:
  • Crac des Chevaliers
  • Dover Castle
  • Maubourg Castle
• Acknowledgment to Crusader Kings III for providing context on feudalism and castle construction.

Call to Action

• Recommendations to explore Crusader Kings III for an immersive strategy experience in a medieval setting.
• Thanks to Patreon supporters for channel support.