I WONDER - Why Did Castles Have Thick Walls?

Castle walls were built to be incredibly strong and thick, often reaching up to 20 feet wide. Constructed from layers of stone and sometimes filled with rubble and mortar, these walls could withstand most attacks, including those from battering rams and catapults. Their thickness also made it difficult for enemies to tunnel through. Additionally, small slits known as arrow loops allowed defenders to shoot arrows at attackers while remaining protected.

What materials were primarily used to construct the thick castle walls?

• Stone and mortar

• Wood and clay

• Metal and concrete

• Brick and sand

How wide could the castle walls be?

• Up to 25 feet

• Up to 20 feet or more

• Up to 15 feet

• Up to 10 feet

Which of the following attacks could the castle walls resist?

• Fire arrows

• Poison gas

• Floods

• Battering rams

Why was tunneling through the castle walls difficult for enemies?

• The walls were too thick

• The walls were electrified

• The walls were made of metal

• The walls were surrounded by water

What was the purpose of arrow loops in the castle walls?

• To allow sunlight in

• To let water drain out

• To enable defenders to shoot arrows

• To provide ventilation