How many castles are still standing in Europe?

Most castles in Europe were built in the Middle Ages. There are more than 10,000 medieval castles and their remains in Europe. Not only did they protect nobility, but they also served as political centers, local government offices, The European country with the most castles, is Germany, with over 25,000.

Why are most castles ruins?

Castles eventually became unnecessary and the remains became landmarks and tourist attractions. Remember it costs money to restore something. Many castles were in fact robbed out for building materials. Quite often, when archaeologists dig the sites, they just find some empty trenches where walls used to be.

Why are there so many castles in England?

Britain was in a state of civil war for much of the Middle Ages, as nobles feuded with each other or revolted against the king. Lords and kings built castles for protection and to control lands. As a result of this long and warlike history, over 1,500 castles were built in England alone.

Do real castles exist?

Castles are a staple of world history, particularly European history, as several of them still stand today. All of these castles have received extensive repair work throughout the centuries and most of them are open to the public today as tourist attractions.

Are there abandoned castles in America?

But the United States has its fair share of castles, too. But, some of the castles in the U.S., for one reason or another, have become abandoned and fallen into disrepair. Each of these castles has been touched by death and is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who died there.

Are there any abandoned castles in the world?

In modern times, however, many of these ancient stone buildings are abandoned and in crumbling ruins. Browse the gallery below to see some of the most beautiful abandoned castles in the world, including Ballycarbery Castle in Ireland, Caudilla Castle in Spain and Kilchurn Castle in Scotland.

Were there castles in Viking times?

A Viking ring fortress, or Trelleborg-type fortress, is a type of circular fort of a special design, built in Scandinavia in the Viking Age. They are also known simply as trelleborgs. All trelleborgs have a strictly circular shape, with roads and gates pointing in the four cardinal directions.