What are castles? - Info sheet

Castles are historic structures that served as fortified residences for nobility and royalty, primarily designed to provide safety and security to the inhabitants. These imposing edifices were homes to various individuals, including the ruling lords who commanded the castle, soldiers responsible for its defence against potential adversaries, and a range of staff like cooks and cleaners who ensured the smooth running of daily life within the castle walls. Castles played a crucial role in the social and military fabric of the past, symbolising power and serving as administrative centres, as well as safe havens during times of conflict.

Understanding castles and their significance is not only an exploration of architectural marvels but also a dive into the medieval way of life. Students are encouraged to engage in discussions and utilise multimedia resources, such as educational videos, to enrich their knowledge about castles. One such resource is a video titled "Castles for Kids: What is a Castle? Medieval History for Children" by FreeSchool, which offers an accessible and engaging overview of what castles are and why they were built. After learning about these fortified structures, students are prompted to reflect on their newfound understanding by listing five key points they have learned from class discussions and the informative video content.