How Do You Build Medieval European Castles?
In the Medieval era, the castles that dotted the European landscape offered protection to nearby villagers during times of war, played host to social gatherings, housed armies and served as residences. When visiting these mammoth fortresses, it’s interesting to contemplate how such a structure was built using ancient technology. Locate an appropriate site. Look for a site that offers a natural defense such as a hill or mound. Consider the proximity of natural resources. Transportation costs in the medieval era were quite high, so finding raw building materials nearby is helpful. Consult an architect. In 12th and 13th century France, King Phillip II Augustus standardized the military architecture of castles within his kingdom. Common characteristics included a dry moat, high curtain walls, corner towers with staggered arrow loops on every floor of the tower, drum towers to protect the gate and a large tower keep. The Louvre in Paris and Yévre-le-Châtel castle in Loiret are examples of t
