Castles are magnificent buildings that have captured our imaginations for years. They are full of fascinating stories and secrets. Unlock the mysteries and enchantment in these ten facts about castles.

1. Castles were built to defend!

Long ago, castles were built to defend.

They were positioned on hills or near water because it made for a great location to spot approaching enemies!

With thick stone walls, drawbridges, and moats, castles provided protection to those living inside.

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2. Castles were often surrounded by moats with a drawbridge.

Many castles were surrounded by moats, which were deep ditches filled with water.

The moat served as an additional layer of defence.

It made it difficult for invaders to get over the castle walls.

To access the castle, a drawbridge would be lowered over the moat, acting as a bridge for people to cross.

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3. Towers and turrets were perfect for guards to keep watch.

Castles often had tall towers and turrets, which offered vantage points for guards to keep watch.

Turrets were also used for storing supplies or as lookout points during battles.

Can you imagine yourself as a knight, standing at the top of the tower, ready to defend?! We’d be pretty nervous!

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4. The keep was the safest place to be.

At the heart of the castle stood the keep, a strong and fortified tower.

This was the safest place in the castle during an attack.

The keep housed the important residents of the castle, along with important rooms such as the great hall, bedrooms, and kitchens.

5. Castles were bustling and full of people!

Castles were bustling places.

They housed not only knights and nobles but also cooks, servants, and blacksmiths.

In the great hall, feasts and celebrations were held, while the kitchens were filled with busy cooks preparing delicious meals fit for royalty.

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6. Knights would defend the castle.

Knights were warriors who defended their lords and ladies.

They wore suits of armour, made from metal plates, to protect themselves during battles.

Imagine the loud clanking sound of armour as they walked through the castle halls.

Listen to our King Frank and the Knights of the Eco Quest series!

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7. Castles had beautiful gardens.

Castles often featured beautiful gardens and courtyards.

These green spaces provided a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle inside the castle.

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8. There were secret passages and hidden rooms!

Some castles had secret passageways and hidden rooms… very mysterious!

These hidden spaces were used for various purposes, such as escaping during times of danger or storing precious treasures.

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9. You can find castles all across the world.

There are lots of famous castles across the globe, each with its own amazing history.

Have you heard of the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany? It’s known for its fairy-tale appearance.

You might have visited the majestic Windsor Castle! It’s still a residence of the royal family.

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10. Castles inspire lots of stories!

Castles have inspired lots of stories.

From the magical world of Hogwarts in Harry Potter to the adventures of Sleeping Beauty in Disney movies, castles have become timeless symbols of wonder and fantasy.

Meet Harry Potter prop makers!

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