Castles : their construction and history
(Book)

Reprint. Originally published: London : W. Heinemann, 1939.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

The art of fortification had reached a high state of development even at the dawn of history. Powerful military works, dating from the remotest periods, have been found in Anatolia, Greece, Mesopotamia and Egypt. The medieval castle, with its aura of legend and romance, represents perhaps the most familiar form of a long-crucial art. This volume traces the history of the castle from its ancient roots through Roman times and the Middle Ages, to the fanciful chateaux of the sixteenth century. Profusely illustrated, it explores innovations in castle design, siege operations, artillery and other weapons, living conditions within the castle, and clearly explains features of construction. In addition, noted historian and fortification expert Sidney Toy takes the reader on a detailed guided tour of over 120 of the most famous castles and fortresses of Europe and the Middle East.--From publisher description.

The art of fortification had reached a high state of development even at the dawn of history. Powerful military works, dating from the remotest periods, have been found in Anatolia, Greece, Mesopotamia and Egypt. The medieval castle, with its aura of legend and romance, represents perhaps the most familiar form of a long-crucial art. This volume traces the history of the castle from its ancient roots through Roman times and the Middle Ages, to the fanciful chateaux of the sixteenth century. Profusely illustrated, it explores innovations in castle design, siege operations, artillery and other weapons, living conditions within the castle, and clearly explains features of construction. In addition, noted historian and fortification expert Sidney Toy takes the reader on a detailed guided tour of over 120 of the most famous castles and fortresses of Europe and the Middle East.--From publisher description.

Gift.