Painscastle Castle, Medieval motte-and-bailey castle in Painscastle, Wales
Painscastle Castle is a medieval fortified site featuring a motte and bailey in the village of Painscastle, Wales. The earthworks consist of a raised mound approximately 9 meters (30 feet) high paired with a rectangular enclosed courtyard, both surrounded by substantial defensive ditches.
Pain FitzJohn constructed the fort in the early 12th century, but Welsh forces captured and destroyed it following his death in 1137. The site was subsequently abandoned, though the earthwork structures have endured to the present day.
The castle reflects Norman building methods used to maintain control over Welsh lands in the medieval period. Its layout and defenses show how these settlers organized their fortified settlements.
The earthworks are freely accessible on foot, though they sit on private land and require prior permission to visit. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven and can become slippery when wet.
The site preserves two barbicans positioned to align with the main and outer ward entrances. These defensive outworks demonstrate sophisticated medieval military planning rarely visible in other motte-and-bailey examples.
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