Why were castles built during the middle ages?

Answer 1

Medieval lords and kings began to build castles just at the time the Carolingian Empire was beginning to collapse, under the pressure of raids by Vikings, Magyars, and Spanish Muslims. The national government was no longer able to stop these raids, or even respond to them, so it became important for the local lords to be able to do so. A castle was the best defense for the purpose.

A medieval castle had some of the same elements as the older Roman castra. It differed in the basic layout. The Roman castra had a square plan, surrounded by walls with gates, built on level land. The castle had a large open area called a bailey, at the foot of a mound called a motte, with both surrounded by walls. ON the motte was a keep, which was strongly fortified and contained storage for provisions. The bailey kept out small groups of raiders, but the keep was the place of refuge in an all-out attack. This newer design was both more versatile and more secure.

Answer 2

because they needed a place from which to hold a seat of power. Also they needed strongholds that could guard a certain area. E.g. Edward I of England made an iron-ring of castle in the north of Wales following his conquest of Wales in the 13th century to control the local Welsh population. They were also a status symbol for the nobility

Answer 3

Castles were built in the middle ages to defend William of Normandy's armies and provide homes for them too!

Answer 4

because nobody had invented the small apartment yet

Answer 5

Castles were used as the seat of power and for protection of the people. If an invasion happened all the people would go into the castle and fight the invaders.

Answer 6

fortification and protection

Answer 7

So THE KING AND QUEENS CAN LIVE THERE

Answer 8

it is high up and hared to get a good aim