Castles in Europa

European Castles had their origins dating back to around A.D 900 to 1000 and played a great role in the then military system of feudalism. During the middle ages, Europe was a vastly divided continent to that which we have come to know today. She was made up of many tiny feudal states and local conflicts between neighbouring states were common.

Castles were first built for defence against attacking armies of war torn feudal Europe and were necessary to help protect the villages and their lords. As Europe grew and the states merged or were conquered the castle was built as a place of government over the local populace.

By 1500, castles became much less important in Europe. Cannons were invented, so it was easy to invade, capture and destroy a castle.