Why were castles painted white?
Why were castles painted white? Castle walls could be plastered and whitewashed to protect the walls and mortar.
When did people stop living in castles?
After the 16th century, castles declined as a mode of defense, mostly because of the invention and improvement of heavy cannons and mortars. This artillery could throw heavy cannonballs with so much force that even strong curtain walls could not hold up.
Why are Japanese castle walls curved?
By making the earthwork walls around the kuruwa curved rather than straight, it became possible to attack the advancing enemy from the sides as well as the front. Side attacks were also common on soldiers entering through the koguchi or castle entrance.
How did the Japanese protect their wooden castles from fire?
Apart from the stone walls, Japanese castle buildings were built of wood making them particularly prone to fire. White plaster-covered mud walls were the preferred method of protection from fire. Japanese castles were laid out in compounds or circles (maru in Japanese).
What was the most important room in any castle?
The most important room in a castle was the Great Hall. This is where all the members of the household sat down to eat at tables set up for every meal. It was where feasts were held for special days, or when there were guests. King Arthur's Pentecost Feast takes place in such a Hall.
Was it cold in castles?
Without electricity and just wood for heat, castles were often dark and cold in Medieval times, Bachrach said.