Castles

Castles were built to protect kings and nobles from enemies. They were made of stone and had thick walls, tall towers, and strong gates. Many castles were built on hills so enemies had to fight uphill.

Castles had many secret and clever features. Some had moats filled with water to stop attackers. Drawbridges could be raised to block entry. Small holes called arrow slits let soldiers shoot arrows while staying safe.

Inside castles, there were also secrets. Some castles had hidden tunnels, trapdoors, or secret staircases. There were openings called murder holes above gates, where defenders could drop rocks or hot liquids on enemies below. Castles were like giant stone puzzles designed to stop attackers.

One of the greatest and most famous castles in the world is Windsor Castle in England. It was built over 900 years ago and is still used today, making it the oldest and largest castle still lived in. Windsor Castle has hundreds of rooms, tall towers, thick walls, and secret passages. It sits on a hill so guards could see enemies from far away. Inside, there were grand halls for feasts, private rooms for the king and queen, and even a chapel. Windsor Castle shows how castles were not just for fighting — they were also homes, fortresses, and symbols of power.