What are the protruding parts on castle walls called?
Castle walls are an iconic feature of medieval architecture and have been a source of fascination for centuries. One of the most distinctive features of castle walls is the presence of protruding parts that jut out from the surface. These protrusions are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve an important defensive purpose.
The protruding parts on castle walls come in many shapes and sizes, each with its own specific purpose. From crenellations and merlons to battlements and bartizans, these features are an integral part of the design and construction of castle walls. In this article, we will explore the various protruding parts on castle walls and their functions.
Crenellations: The most common protruding part on castle walls
Crenellations are the most commonly recognized protruding parts on castle walls. They are the alternating notches and solid blocks that line the top of the wall and give it a distinctive serrated appearance. Crenellations were primarily used for defensive purposes, allowing soldiers to shoot arrows or throw stones at attackers while remaining protected behind the solid sections.
Merlons: The solid portion of crenellations
Merlons are the solid portions of crenellations that provide cover for soldiers during an attack. The crenels, or alternating notches, were used to shoot at attackers while the merlons provided cover from incoming fire. They were often decorated with decorative carvings or other embellishments to make them more aesthetically pleasing.
Battlements: A broader term for castle wall protrusions
Battlements is a broader term that refers to any protruding parts on castle walls that provide cover for defenders. They can include crenellations, merlons, and other defensive structures such as bartizans and machicolations. Battlements were essential for defending a castle against attacks, as they provided cover for soldiers while allowing them to shoot at attackers.
Bartizans: Towers that project from the corners of castle walls
Bartizans are towers that project from the corners of castle walls and provide soldiers with an elevated position from which to defend the castle. They were often used as lookout posts and to watch for approaching enemies. Bartizans were also used to drop boiling oil or rocks on attackers below.
Machicolations: Projections with holes used for defense
Machicolations are projections from the walls with openings through which defenders can drop objects on attackers below. They were often used to drop boiling oil or rocks on attackers, and the openings were designed to allow defenders to shoot arrows or throw stones at attackers while remaining protected behind the walls.
Gargoyles: Decorative sculptures that also served a purpose
Gargoyles are decorative sculptures that protrude from the walls of castles. They were often used to channel rainwater away from the walls and prevent damage from water infiltration. Gargoyles were also used to intimidate attackers, as they often took the form of grotesque creatures or other frightening figures.
Corbels: Supporting structures that extend from castle walls
Corbels are supporting structures that extend from castle walls and provide additional support for the weight of the walls above. They were often used to support the weight of towers or other protruding structures and could be decorative or functional in design.
Turrets: Towers that protrude from castle walls
Turrets are towers that protrude from castle walls and provide an elevated position from which to defend the castle. They were often used as lookout posts and to watch for approaching enemies. Turrets were also used to support the weight of the walls above and could be decorated with carvings or other embellishments.
Arrow slits: Narrow openings for archers to shoot through
Arrow slits are narrow openings in castle walls through which archers could shoot arrows at attackers. They were often designed to be as narrow as possible to prevent attackers from returning fire, while still allowing for a clear line of sight for the archers.
Ramparts: Broad embankments that protect castle walls
Ramparts are broad embankments that protect castle walls and provide an elevated position from which defenders can shoot at attackers. They were often used to channel attackers into narrow areas where they could be more easily defeated and were essential for defending castles against attacks.
Conclusion: The many protruding parts that make up castle walls
Castle walls are complex structures that contain many protruding parts, each with its own specific purpose. From crenellations and merlons to battlements and bartizans, these features were essential for defending castles against attack. While many of these structures were designed for defensive purposes, they were also often highly decorated and added to the aesthetic appeal of the castle.
