Castles were bastions of power. Yet, what was life like behind their walls? Part 1 of our documentary follows their development from simple wooden fortifications to the most elaborate strongholds and residences. Part 2 examines their military function from the 11th to the 16th century. When the enemy was at their gates, they had to withstand battering rams, catapults and sapping which called for ever new solutions by their defenders until, finally, large-calibre cannons spelt their end.
Returning Series
Bastions of Power
June 13, 2020
June 14, 2020
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Castles were bastions of power and the site of countless battles. Our documentary examines their military function from the 11th to the 16th century. When the enemy was at their gates, they had to withstand battering rams, catapults and sapping which called for ever new solutions by their defenders until, finally, large-calibre cannons spelt their end. Our journey takes us all through Europe, while historians and archaeologists will guide us through a fascinating panorama of medieval warfare.
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