machicolation
Quick Summary
Machicolations are a feature of military architecture, specifically in medieval castles. They are openings, typically found in the floor of a projecting parapet or gallery, designed to allow defenders to drop or shoot missiles onto attackers below. These openings could also be in the roof of a passage through a gateway.12
The term "machicolation" can refer to the opening itself or to a gallery or parapet that contains these openings. The construction of machicolations was intended to enhance the defensive capabilities of a stronghold by providing a way to attack enemies at close range without exposing the defenders.123
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castle…defended by portcullises, doors, and machicolations. Portcullises were generally made of oak, were plated and shod with iron, and were moved up and down in stone grooves, clearing or blocking the passage. Machicolations were of two kinds: some were openings in the roof of the passage through which missiles were…
Read More…defended by portcullises, doors, and machicolations. Portcullises were generally made of oak, were plated and shod with iron, and were moved up and down in stone grooves, clearing or blocking the passage. Machicolations were of two kinds: some were openings in the roof of the passage through which missiles were…
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military technologyStone fortificationsHoardings gave way to machicolations, permanent overhanging galleries of stone that became a distinctive feature of medieval European fortress architecture.
Read MoreHoardings gave way to machicolations, permanent overhanging galleries of stone that became a distinctive feature of medieval European fortress architecture.
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