The architecture of castles evolved over time, driven by changing military tactics, technological advancements, and the shifting needs of society. By the 12th century, stone castles began to replace the earlier motte-and-bailey structures. The stone keep was the centerpiece of these castles, often surrounded by thick walls, defensive towers, and a moat. The keep housed the lord’s family and served as the last line of defense in case of a siege.
One of the most notable innovations in castle architecture was the development of the crenellated wall, also known as the battlements. These walls featured alternating high and low sections that allowed defenders to shoot arrows or throw objects at attackers while being protected behind the walls. The introduction of the gatehouse, a fortified entrance to the castle, provided added security, and drawbridges and moats were often used to make it more difficult for attackers to approach.
As castles became more advanced, they began to include additional features such as curtain walls, which were long walls that encircled the castle grounds, and towers, which were used for both defense and as living spaces. Some castles, such as the famous Dover Castle, included extensive underground tunnels and secret chambers that could be used in times of siege or attack.
In the late medieval period, castles began to take on more luxurious forms. With the increased stability of the kingdom and the decline of the constant warfare that had characterized the earlier Middle Ages, castles became more comfortable residences for the nobility. Large windows, ornate stonework, and expansive gardens were added to castle designs, turning them into grand homes rather than purely military strongholds. Castles like Windsor Castle and Hampton Court are prime examples of this transformation. shutdown123