岩尾城, Mountain fortress in Yamato, Japan.
Iwao Castle is a medieval fortress located in Kumamoto Prefecture, positioned on a mountain ridge at approximately 482 meters elevation. The site features stone walls and earthen ramparts that follow the natural terrain, with the Todoroki River providing natural protection on three sides.
The fortress was built by the Aso clan during the medieval period and became a significant stronghold in the region. Following the Battle of Sekigahara, it fell under the control of Kato Kiyomasa, who administered his domain from this location.
The castle layout incorporates concentric circular baileys around the main bailey, with the secondary bailey situated to the south and the third bailey to the northeast.
The site is designated as a historical location and visitors can explore the fortress remains while observing the defensive structures spread across the ridge. The location is accessible for those interested in hiking up the mountain and examining the earthwork fortifications from different vantage points.
A major fire in 1552 destroyed significant portions of the fortress and marked a turning point in its history. This event ultimately led to changes in how the fortress was managed and used moving forward.
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