Red Tower

What was a castle?

A castle in the Middle Ages had many functions. It was home to the lord of the castle and his family, and the people who worked there. When danger threatened, the people could seek shelter in the castle and defend it. The thick walls and high towers made it very difficult for attackers to get in. The castle also provided protection for the local peasants. In return for that protection, they had to contribute part of their crop to the lord of the castle. This was gathered and stored in the castle.

Apart from that there were workshops, stables and stalls, and storerooms, where work could be done, things repaired and supplies replenished. A castle also signified that there was somebody important and powerful living there. However, the lord of the castle himself often had a lord of his own above him, in other words someone who had even more power – for example a count or even the king.

Recreate a castle with these building blocks.

1 Keep

The keep was the highest and strongest tower in the castle. It was a good place to defend from. When enemies attacked, indeed, it was the last safe place.
2 Palas

The palas was the large house in which the lords of the castle dwelt. This was where the family lived, celebrated feasts and held important meetings.
3 Chapel

In the chapel the castle inhabitants prayed and celebrated worship.
4 Outbuildings

The cooking and baking was done in these outbuildings. That was where the supplies were stored, i.e. food and things the people needed to live off.
5 Well

Fresh water was obtained from the well. That was particularly important when the castle was surrounded by enemies and nobody could venture out.
6 Drawbridge

The drawbridge led across the moat to the castle. When danger threatened, it was raised so that no one could get in
7 Defensive wall

The defensive wall ran right round the castle and offered protection against enemies. Guards were posted on top of the wall and defended the castle.