Images

The enceinte (wall enclosing a castle or town) of Aigues-Mortes, France. 13th century CE.

Soncino Castle, Lombardy, Italy. First built in the 10th century CE and then rebuilt in the 13th century CE. The barbican adds extra protection to the principal entrance of the castle and gatehouse.

Soncino Castle, Lombardy, Italy. First built in the 10th century CE and then rebuilt in the 13th century CE. Here can be clearly seen the massive angled additional base to the walls known as a talus which increased the difficulty in climbing...

Château de Suscinio, Morbihan, France. First built in the 13th century CE as the residence of the Dukes of Britanny.

An example of a blind arcade, false arches used to decorate medieval walls.

A tower with a sloping base (batter) for extra defence, part of the castle of Bari, Italy. Originally built in the 12-13th century CE.

The enceinte or circuit wall of Aigues-Mortes, France. Originally 13th century CE.

A vaulted chamber at Aigues-Mortes, France. Originally 13th century CE.

The wall walk (alure) and battlements at Aigues-Mortes, France. Originally 13th century CE.

A 13th century CE gatehouse at Aigues-Mortes, France. At the top centre there is a machicolation or murder hole - a hole in the projecting overhang of a wall or tower through which missiles may be dropped on the enemy.