How were towns protected in medieval times?
How were towns protected in medieval times?
Deep ditches and strong walls were built around the towns to protect the towns people from attack and as a sign of wealth. Strong gatehouses were constructed at intervals around the walls with drawbridges for extra protection. At night the the drawbridges were raised and the gates were shut.
Why were medieval cities on rivers?
These rivers are navigable, or wide and deep enough for ships to use. People and goods can sail easily from inland areas to the open sea and, from there, to other parts of the world. As a result, these people were far enough away to be largely safe from the many wars fought on Europe’s mainland.
What were rivers used for in medieval times?
Rivers were used extensively to transport goods in the Middle Ages. Road transport was dependable and fairly predictable, although slower in winter, but it was expensive. It cost 1 ½d per mile at the beginning of the fourteenth century to transport a ton of grain. By water it was ½d.
How do you defend a castle in medieval times?
How to defend a castle
- Building up high. Building a castle up high made it difficult for enemies to get to the castle.
- Tall towers. Strong towers were added to curtain walls to watch out for enemies.
- Battlements. Battlements were walls on the roof of a castle.
- Arrow slits.
- Moat.
- Drawbridge.
- Portcullis.
- Dungeons.
Why did cities develop on rivers?
Most of the oldest cities in the world developed around rivers because they played a major role in sustaining the city itself. Rivers provide water, support natural processes – like flood prevention – and provide habitats for plants and animals.
Why were cities built on rivers?
Why were cities built on rivers? Rivers are a source of fresh, drinkable water. Rivers are also used for irrigation, essential to food production, plus they provide natural habitats for plants and animals. Beyond that, rivers support natural processes that are important to the city.
What is a Bourne in geography?
A bourne is an intermittent stream, flowing from a spring. A winterbourne is a stream or river that is dry through the summer months. Bourne is used as a place name or as a part of a place name, usually in chalk downland countryside. Alternative forms are bourn or borne or born.
How many guards were in a medieval castle?
They are divided into three guard teams arranged by height, with 80 conscripts and 8 sergeants per team.