Beginning of Essay
Castles did not just appear, but rather evolved over a long time. The first castles were nothing more than wooden forts. But by the 15th century they had evolved into magnificent works of art. Castles have been around since before history was recorded. The ....

Middle of Essay
.... infleunce of the Byzantine fortifications. One of the major improvements over the old design was the introduction of towers to the outside walls. No longer were the walls in a rectangular form as was prominent between the 10th and 12th centuries. Lords began to make their castles more complex, and add a new aspect, comfort. Between the 14th, and 16th century castles lost their importance. Partly because of the formation of monarchy, and centralized government. But also because of the development of gunpowder which made the fortifications impractical. Many castles were remodeled to form more practical living quarters. Some castles were unab ....