Castle Low-poly 3D model

cgtrader

Castles are fortified structures built during medieval times by nobility and royalty. Scholars often consider them to be private residences for lords or nobles, differing from palaces, fortresses, and fortified settlements. The term's usage has varied over time, applied to diverse structures like hill forts and country houses. Over 900 years, castles evolved in form with various features, including commonplace aspects like curtain walls and arrowslits. European-style castles originated after the fall of the Carolingian Empire when individual lords and princes built them for control and protection. Although military origins are emphasized, castles also functioned as administration centers and symbols of power. Castles were initially constructed from earth and timber; later defenses replaced these with stone. Early castles often exploited natural defenses but later featured towers and flanking fire strategies. In the 15th century, gunpowder's impact on castle construction increased due to cannon fire advances. As a result, true castles declined while country houses gained popularity. From the 18th century, there was a romantic revival of Gothic architecture leading to mock castles with no military purpose.