A Website About Castles

Step into a world of medieval enchantment and explore the grandeur of some of the world's most magnificent fortresses with Pictures of Castles!

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Castles

Castles have captured people's imaginations for centuries. Castles come in a range of architectural styles from medieval to Gothic, and each one is unique in it's own way. Originally constructed for defensive purposes, many Castles have been repurposd for other uses such as residences or tourist attractions.

Houses

Several familial houses have owned and controlled the most castles in the world. These include the Habsburgs, who controlled numerous castles throughout Europe, and the Windsor family, who own and reside in several castles in the United Kingdom, including Windsor Castle and Balmoral Castle.

Battles

Battles for castles were often fierce and brutal affairs, with attackers using a range of tactics such as seige engines, mining, and direct assault to breach the castle walls. Defenders employed strategies such as shooting arrows and dropping rocks from above, and setting traps to slow down or deter the enemy.

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Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, located in Berkshire, England, has a history that dates back over 900 years. It was originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, making it one of the oldest and largest occupied castles in the world.

In the 12th century, during a period known as "The Anarcy", Windsor Castle became a stronghold and witnessed several key battles. It was attacked and captured multiple times by forces supporting either King Stephen or Empress Matilda during the civil war for the English throne.

In the 13th century, Windsor Castle once again found itself embroiled in conflict during the Baron's War. It was besieged by rebel barons who were opposed to King John's rule. The castle held firm, and the rebellion was eventually quelled.

One of the most significant periods in Windsor Castle's history was during the English Civil War in the 17th century. The castle was held by the Royalists, who supported King Charles I. It endured two sieges, one in 1642 and another in 1643-1646, and was eventually captured by Parliamentary forces.

After the English Civil War, Windsor Castle underwent extensive restoration work under the direction of King Charles II. The fortifications were strengthened, and significant additions, including the famous St. George's Chapel, were built.

In the 18th century, the castle was involved in the Jacobite Rebellion. During the Battle of Culloden in 1746, Windsor Castle served as a prison for Jacobite soldiers. Many of the were held captive here before being transporteed for trial.

During World War II, Windsor Castle played a vital role as a refuge for the British royal family. Due to it's strategic location outside of London, the castle was a safe haven away from the bombings in the capital.

The year 1992 saw a devastating fire at Windsor Castle, which caused extensive damage to parts of the castle. However, it also led to a massive restoration effort, lasting five years and costing millions of pounds, to repair the damage and restore the castle's splendor.

Windsor Castle's State Apartments are renowned for their opulence and historical importance. These grand rooms house a remarkable collection of artwork, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt and Canaletto.

Today, Windsor Castle continues to serve as the official residence of the Royal Family. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to admire it's architectural beauty, explore it's rich history, and witness the changing of the guards.

Windsor Castle's illustrious history is as fascinating as it is vast. From battles and sieges to royal refuge and restoration, this iconic fortress has stood the test of time and remains both a symbol of British heritage and a living testament to the country's remarkable history.

Windsor Castle