Buildings

What is a Motte-and-Bailey Castle?

A motte-and-bailey castle is a type of European fortification featuring a keep, either wooden or stone, situated atop an elevated mound known as a motte.

This structure is complemented by an enclosed courtyard, known as a bailey, which is fortified with a protective ditch and a wooden fence. These castles, which could be constructed using relatively unskilled labour yet provided significant military strength, emerged in northern Europe around the 10th century.

Originating in Normandy and Anjou in France, their design spread to the Holy Roman Empire and its controlled Low Countries in the 11th century, gaining popularity in the region that is now the Netherlands.

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The Normans were instrumental in introducing this architectural style to England and Wales. During the 12th and 13th centuries, motte-and-bailey castles became prevalent in Scotland, Ireland, and Denmark.

By the late 13th century, however, this design was largely replaced by newer forms of fortification. Despite this, the earthworks of these castles continue to be a distinctive feature in the landscapes of many countries.

Origins and Design

The origins and design of the motte-and-bailey castle, a hallmark of medieval military architecture, can be traced back to the Normans, who were instrumental in popularising this style of fortification.

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Before their appearance in England, these castles were already prevalent in Normandy, France, where they emerged as an effective means of defence and control in a feudal society. The design of motte-and-bailey castles reflects a blend of practicality, speed of construction, and strategic military thinking, characteristics that made them a popular choice during the Norman expansion.

Stowey Castle, which is a motte-and-bailey castle located in the village of Nether Stowey in Somerset, England. It is believed to have been built by William de Mohun, 1st Earl of Somerset, in the late 11th century
Stowey Castle, which is a motte-and-bailey castle located in the village of Nether Stowey in Somerset, England. It is believed to have been built by William de Mohun, 1st Earl of Somerset, in the late 11th century

At the heart of a motte-and-bailey castle lies the motte, a large, artificially raised earthen mound, often created by piling up soil. This mound was typically topped with a wooden or occasionally stone keep, which served as the stronghold of the castle.

The height of the motte provided a commanding view of the surrounding area, making it an excellent vantage point for surveillance and defence. The keep on the motte was usually the residence of the lord or the commander, and it symbolised the authority and power of its occupant.

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Adjacent to the motte was the bailey, an enclosed courtyard that was surrounded by a protective palisade and a ditch. The bailey was a versatile space, housing the barracks for soldiers, stables, workshops, stores, and sometimes even a chapel.

Motte-and-ailey Castle Could Rise Quickly

This enclosed area served both as a defensive structure and as a place where daily activities of the castle’s inhabitants could take place. The palisade, typically a wooden fence, further fortified the bailey and acted as a barrier against attackers. The ditch, often filled with water, added an additional layer of defence.

The design of motte-and-bailey castles evolved over time, adapting to local conditions and materials. In England, the Normans often utilised existing features such as Roman forts or Anglo-Saxon earthworks, incorporating them into the design of their new castles. This not only saved time and resources but also allowed them to exploit strategic locations that had been recognised as important for centuries.

Pleshey, in Essex. Built by Geoffrey de Mandeville after the conquest. The boundaries are still very much defined by the earthworks of the motte and outer bailey and fields bounded by the ‘plessis’ (Old French for fence) from which the village derives its name. It is still very much an obstacle today intended as it was to be livestock proof much like the ‘Bocage’ in Normandy ~ Neil Carleton Image Credit: of Castles and Fortifications of England & Wales www.ecastles.co.uk

Newly Conquered Lands

The construction technique employed in building these castles was relatively straightforward, which allowed for rapid construction.

This was crucial in a period where speed was often a key factor in establishing control over a territory. The use of local labour and materials meant that a new motte-and-bailey castle could rise quickly from the landscape, asserting Norman presence and authority in the newly conquered lands.

Read More: What is an Anglo-Saxon Moot?

This type of fortification not only provided a practical solution to the needs of medieval warfare and governance but also played a pivotal role in the Norman conquest and control of territories, particularly in England following the 1066 invasion.

The Norman Conquest and Proliferation

The Norman Conquest of England in 1066, led by William the Conqueror.One of the most enduring legacies of this conquest was the proliferation of motte-and-bailey castles across England, a strategy that was central to the Normans’ efforts to consolidate their control over the newly conquered territory.

The bailey was an enclosed courtyard overlooked by the motte and surrounded by a wooden fence called a palisade and another ditch

Following his victory at the Battle of Hastings, William faced the daunting task of securing his rule over a land that was not only vast but also dotted with numerous Anglo-Saxon strongholds and resistant to Norman rule.

To assert his authority and maintain order, William embarked on an ambitious programme of castle building, employing the motte-and-bailey design that had proven effective in Normandy.

Anglo-Saxon Fortifications

William’s strategy involved placing these castles at key points throughout England, particularly in areas of strategic importance or where resistance was expected.

By doing so, he not only secured vital supply routes and crossings but also exerted control over the local populace. These castles were often built in or near towns and were sometimes constructed on sites of pre-existing Anglo-Saxon fortifications, thereby leveraging their strategic advantages while simultaneously demonstrating Norman dominance.

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The sheer scale of this endeavour was remarkable. Within a few years of the conquest, numerous motte-and-bailey castles sprang up across England, fundamentally altering its landscape and signalling the entrenchment of Norman power.

A motte-and-bailey castle was built by 1069, three years after the Norman conquest.[2] The castle was held directly by the Norman kings; its castellan was generally also the sheriff of Wiltshire.
A motte-and-bailey castle was built by 1069, three years after the Norman conquest. The castle was held directly by the Norman kings; its castellan was generally also the sheriff of Wiltshire.

These castles served not only as military bastions but also as administrative centres, from which the Normans could govern and administer their new domains.

This rapid and widespread construction of motte-and-bailey castles under William the Conqueror was a clear demonstration of the Normans’ mastery of castle-building technology and their strategic acumen in utilising these structures as tools of conquest and control.

Evolution and Purpose

Initially conceived as fortifications for swiftly asserting control over newly conquered lands, these castles gradually evolved to fulfil a variety of functions, mirroring the changing dynamics of medieval society.

In the aftermath of the Norman Conquest, the primary purpose of motte-and-bailey castles was to establish Norman authority and suppress resistance.

Okehampton Castle is a medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Devon, England. It was built between 1068 and 1086 by Baldwin FitzGilbert following a revolt in Devon against Norman rule, and formed the centre of the Honour of Okehampton, guarding a crossing point across the West Okement River.
Okehampton Castle is a medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Devon, England. It was built between 1068 and 1086 by Baldwin FitzGilbert following a revolt in Devon against Norman rule, and formed the centre of the Honour of Okehampton, guarding a crossing point across the West Okement River.

Their strategic placement allowed the Normans to maintain a network of strongholds across England, crucial for controlling a population that was often hostile and resistant to their rule. The motte, with its keep, provided a defensible position against potential uprisings, while the bailey served as a base for troops and a storage area for supplies, ensuring the sustainability of these outposts.

However, as the initial phase of conquest and consolidation waned, the role of these castles began to shift. They started to take on more administrative functions, acting as centres of local governance and justice.

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The lord of the castle, often a Norman noble, would administer the surrounding lands from the bailey, holding court and managing affairs of state. This transition marked a significant shift in the castles’ role, from purely military installations to integral parts of the feudal system.

Motte-and-Bailey Designed to Intimidate

Additionally, these castles became symbols of Norman power and prestige. The impressive size and imposing nature of these structures were not just practical defensive measures; they were also designed to intimidate and impress. As such, they served as a constant reminder of the new social and political order under Norman rule.

Over time, the nature of conflict and warfare evolved, and so too did the design of these castles. The wooden structures of early motte-and-bailey castles were vulnerable to fire and decay, prompting a gradual shift towards stone construction.

Stone keeps and walls not only provided greater durability and defence but also reflected the growing wealth and status of their owners.

Launceston Castle is located in the town of Launceston, Cornwall, England. It was probably built by Robert the Count of Mortain after 1068, and initially comprised an earthwork and timber castle with a large motte in one corner
Launceston Castle is located in the town of Launceston, Cornwall, England. It was probably built by Robert the Count of Mortain after 1068, and initially comprised an earthwork and timber castle with a large motte in one corner

Furthermore, these castles began to evolve into centres of community and commerce. The bailey, once a military encampment, often developed into a bustling hub where markets, workshops, and community gatherings took place.

This evolution highlighted the role of the castle as a focal point of medieval life, influencing economic, social, and cultural activities in the region.

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In essence, the evolution and purpose of motte-and-bailey castles in England illustrate a microcosm of medieval society’s transformation. From instruments of conquest and control, these castles morphed into symbols of feudal authority, centres of administration and justice, hubs of community life, and bastions of social order.

Transition to Stone

The transition from wooden to stone structures in the construction of motte-and-bailey castles during the 12th century in England marked a significant evolution in medieval architecture and fortification techniques.

This shift was driven by a confluence of factors, including advancements in military technology, the need for more durable and formidable structures, and the desire to reflect the growing status and wealth of the feudal elite.

Hendrick de Cort's pastoral depiction of Launceston Castle in the late-18th century; note the fortified bridge (centre) and the Watch Tower (right), later destroyed[
Hendrick de Cort’s pastoral depiction of Launceston Castle in the late-18th century; note the fortified bridge (centre) and the Watch Tower (right), later destroyed[

Initially, the motte-and-bailey castles, with their wooden keeps and palisades, offered a quick and effective solution for the Normans to establish control over newly conquered territories. However, as the political and social landscape of England stabilised, the limitations of these wooden structures became apparent.

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Wood, while readily available and easy to work with, was susceptible to rot, decay, and most significantly, fire. The vulnerability of wooden castles to fire was not just a practical concern but also a symbolic one, as it represented a potential challenge to the authority and permanence of Norman rule.

The introduction of stone in castle construction addressed these vulnerabilities. Stone keeps and walls were not only more resistant to fire and decay but also provided enhanced defensive capabilities.

Motte-and-Bailey Sieges

The thickness and strength of stone walls made them far more formidable against sieges, a common feature of medieval warfare. This transition was also facilitated by advancements in masonry and architectural techniques, allowing for the creation of larger and more complex structures.

Moreover, stone castles were a statement of wealth, power, and permanence. They were a physical manifestation of the Norman lords’ dominance over the land and its people. The significant investment required to build a stone castle was also a reflection of the lord’s resources and standing.

York Castle. The first motte and bailey castle on the site was built in 1068 following the Norman conquest of York. After the destruction of the castle by rebels and a Viking army in 1069. The now ruined keep of the medieval Norman castle is commonly referred to as Clifford's Tower. Built originally on the orders of William I to dominate the former Viking city of Jórvík
York Castle. The first motte and bailey castle on the site was built in 1068 following the Norman conquest of York. After the destruction of the castle by rebels and a Viking army in 1069. The now ruined keep of the medieval Norman castle is commonly referred to as Clifford’s Tower. Built originally on the orders of William I to dominate the former Viking city of Jórvík

In many cases, the existing motte-and-bailey castles were upgraded with stone, with stone keeps replacing wooden ones on the mottes and stone walls encircling the baileys.

This transition was not abrupt but occurred gradually over the 12th century. Some castles underwent piecemeal upgrades, while others were entirely rebuilt in stone.

Motte-and-Bailey Temporary Fortifications

The transition to stone in the construction of motte-and-bailey castles during the 12th century in England was a multifaceted process, influenced by practical, military, social, and symbolic considerations.

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This transition not only enhanced the defensive capabilities of these fortifications but also transformed them into enduring symbols of Norman authority and the feudal order. Their stone ruins, scattered across the English countryside, continue to evoke the power and prestige of their medieval builders.

Notable Examples of Motte-and-Bailey

Some of the most famous motte-and-bailey castles in England include:

  • Windsor Castle: Originally built by William the Conqueror, Windsor Castle has been continuously inhabited since its construction and is now a popular tourist destination and royal residence.
  • Durham Castle: Built in the late 11th century, Durham Castle is an excellent example of the transition from motte-and-bailey to stone structures. It is now a World Heritage Site.
  • Arundel Castle: Another notable example, which has been restored and modified over the centuries but retains its original motte-and-bailey layout.

Decline

The legacy and decline of motte-and-bailey castles in England provide a poignant reflection of the changing dynamics of medieval society, warfare, and architectural trends.

By the end of the medieval period, these castles, which had once been the epitome of Norman military innovation and feudal power, began to wane in prominence, giving way to new forms of fortification and residence. However, the impact and legacy of these structures have endured far beyond their physical decline.

Castle Pulverbatch in Shropshire in England was built in the 11th or 12th century and abandoned by 1202. This Digital elevation model shows the motte just left of centre, with the bailey to the right (north-east) of it
Castle Pulverbatch in Shropshire in England was built in the 11th or 12th century and abandoned by 1202. This Digital elevation model shows the motte just left of centre, with the bailey to the right (north-east) of it

The decline of motte-and-bailey castles was primarily driven by advancements in military technology and changes in warfare tactics. The development of more powerful siege engines and the introduction of gunpowder rendered the traditional motte-and-bailey designs increasingly obsolete.

The wooden structures, and even their later stone counterparts, were vulnerable to the improved offensive capabilities of the time. Furthermore, the evolving nature of feudal society, with a move towards more stable, centralised governance, reduced the need for numerous small castles scattered across the landscape.

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Despite their decline in military relevance, the legacy of motte-and-bailey castles in England is profound. They were instrumental in establishing and maintaining Norman control over England, shaping the medieval landscape both physically and politically.

Towns and Villages

Many of these castles served as nuclei for developing towns and villages, influencing the pattern of settlement and local economies. Their strategic locations, often near key trade routes or at important geographical features, helped shape the infrastructure and urbanisation of medieval England.

Moreover, the architectural legacy of these castles is significant. They represent an important phase in the history of military architecture, illustrating the transition from wooden to stone fortifications.

The ruins and earthworks of these castles, which dot the English countryside, continue to be a source of fascination and study for historians, archaeologists, and the public. They provide valuable insights into Norman military strategy, feudal society, and medieval life.

In the cultural realm, motte-and-bailey castles have captured the public imagination and have become an integral part of England’s historic identity. They are often featured in literature, art, and folklore, symbolising the medieval period’s romance and drama. Their presence in the landscape is a tangible link to a time that shaped much of England’s historical trajectory.