Journeys On Screen: Castle Builders

Castle Builders (streaming on Amazon Prime) has been one of my favorite docuseries that I've encountered. It covers the evolution of the castle from motte and bailey and wooden structures to the epitome of fortress such as Caerphilly above to the grandiose Chateaux of France in later years. Very educational and engaging while taking you on a voyage to some of the greatest castles in Britain and Europe. 

From a Wanderer's Eye

Irish Hauntings

Mural in a constructions zone in Kilkenny, Ireland 

Tourism Ireland is joining in the Halloween festivities with some local hauntings. Check out their website HERE and a super Instagram page HERE. In a country as ancient as Ireland, there are sure to be more than a few spirits (whiskey included 😉 ). The only place below that I've visited from the Hauntings below is that lovely arched bridge on the River Nore in Inistioge but it was beautiful and idyllic when I was there, nothing spooky about it. HERE is another article about some famous haunted places. Explore More Irish Halloween HERE.

Anatomy of a Castle: Moat & Drawbridge

Most people have heard of moats & drawbridges and they make a castle quite iconic as well as very well defended. A moat is a steep, defensive trench or ditch, sometimes dry or filled with water. A drawbridge is a bridge that can be raised or lowered over the moat. The moats could also be stocked with fish for the residents to eat.  Visiting castles with moats is quite a treat. Visually they are stunning, grand fortified islands reflecting in the water.

Moat surrounding the impressive Caerphilly Castle in Wales, the largest castle in Wales and second only to Windsor Castle in the UK

Caerlaverock Castle, Scotland

A wooden bridge spans across the moat where a drawbridge once would have been.

Moat & Bridge around Caerlaverock Castle, Scotland

Bridge over moat, Raglan Castle, Wales

Moat at Raglan Castle, Wales, full of lily pads

Castles Coming

Castles will be featured in the July edition of Emerald Post. Get yours HERE.