In the history of architecture and defensive structures, castles, fortresses and palaces play an important role. They differ in their purpose and functionality, as well as a distinctive feature – the presence of a closed wall.
A castle is a structure designed to protect against external threats. It usually has thick walls, ditches, bastions and other defensive elements. In addition, the castle also usually has interior spaces for living and storing goods and food. One of the main differences between the castle and other buildings is its defensive function – it is designed to protect its inhabitants from enemy attacks.
A fortress is also a structure of a defensive nature, but unlike a castle, it usually has a higher area, massive and fortified walls, bastions and other defensive elements. The fortress can be used as a defensive base for troops, as well as a place to store military equipment and supplies. A fortress also usually has a higher degree of defense than a castle, as it can accommodate more people, soldiers, and supplies. Based on this description of the fortress, the castle is a type of fortress.
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A palace is the residence of a monarch, important persons or wealthy aristocrats. Unlike a castle and a fortress, a palace usually does not have defensive structures and walls, and if these structures exist, they are limited in their functionality and mostly have a decorative function. The palace is designed for comfortable living and for holding ceremonies and receptions. This building usually has luxurious interiors, parks and gardens, personifying the wealth and luxury of its inhabitants.
Comparison of the distinctive characteristics and parameters of a fortress, castle and palace
| Parameter | Fortress | Castle | Palace |
| Based function | protection of inhabitants from external threats | protection of inhabitants from external threats | performance of representative functions |
| For whom is the building intended to live | for the residence of the family of a noble/rich person or ruler | for military garrison accommodation | for the residence of the family of a noble/rich person or ruler |
| Additional functions | defensive and administrative functions | defensive and administrative functions | administrative functions |
| The presence of a closed wall around the perimeter of the structure | yes | yes | no |
| Presence of other defensive structures | yes | yes | limited in functionality and decorative in nature |
| Architectural style | thick walls, narrow windows around the perimeter, the presence of loopholes, a minimum level of architectural delights and decorations | thick walls, narrow windows around the perimeter, the presence of loopholes, a minimum level of architectural delights and decorations | individual walls are quite thin, the presence of windows around the perimeter, a limited number of loopholes or their absence, a high level of architectural refinement and decoration |
| Location | strategically important places (hills, river banks, trade routes) | strategically important places (hills, river banks, trade routes) | being in a strategic location is not necessary |
| Compactness and size | non-compact, is a significant plot of land surrounded by walls and towers (the site can have both high and low building density) | compact, most buildings are connected (walls, towers, living spaces) premises | most often compact |
| Average number of inhabitants | 100-10 thousand people (could have been a city surrounded by a fortress wall) | 30-150 people | 30-2000 people (depending on the importance and wealth of the owner) |
Thus, the difference between a castle and a fortress and a palace lies in their functionality and the presence of defensive structures. But the easiest way to distinguish them is by 4 main parameters – for whom the building is intended, the presence of a closed fortress wall, the function and size of the structure:
- a castle is intended primarily for residence by the family of a noble/rich person, has a closed wall, has a defensive function and is compact
- a fortress is intended primarily for housing a military garrison, has a closed wall, has a defensive function and has a significant area on which many buildings for various purposes are located (up to an entire city)
- a palace is intended primarily for residence of the family of a ruler/noble/rich person, does not have an enclosed wall, does not have a significant defensive function and can be of both small and significant sizes
Now you know the difference between the concepts of castle, fortress and palace.
Additionally, through this link, you can find a wealth of fascinating information about the Middle Ages and medieval castles.
