A watchtower was a key element of medieval castle fortification architecture. It served multiple functions: surveillance and early warning, communication, and defence. The watchtower was strategically positioned to provide a clear view of the surrounding landscape. From there, guards kept watch for enemies, smoke signals, or other unusual activity, enabling them to warn the castle’s inhabitants of approaching danger in good time.

In larger castles, several watchtowers were sometimes built within sight of one another to relay signals – such as fire, smoke, or flags – allowing for the rapid transmission of messages across long distances. The interior of a watchtower was typically simple but functionally arranged.

The castle gate was always a vulnerable and sensitive point, so particular care was taken to secure it. In peaceful times, it also had to be practical enough to allow carts and similar traffic to pass through easily. Depending on the site and possibilities, castle gates were often additionally protected by moats and drawbridges. In some cases, further defences included a portcullis, heavy doors, or thick wooden beams for reinforcement.