Medieval castles were not just showcases for the royal and powerful, they were also the centerpieces of many people's daily lives. A travel guide as well as a historical text, this volume looks at castles not just as ruined buildings, but as part of the cultural and scenic landscape. The 89 photographs illustrate the different architectural concepts and castle features discussed in the text. This book features three artist's renditions of castles and their surroundings, a glossary of terminology, and a listing of castles and locations.