A defensive residence of a
lord , distinguished from other fortifications in the dual role as residence and fort. Because castles were symbols of lordship over a region, they were the frequent targets in warfare, since they were easily defended by a relatively few men, tying down a much larger force often for months at a time. Early castles, the 'motte' or '
bailey ' styles, were build generally on a hill, a '
keep ' designed to enhance the tactical value of the hill. Over the centuries, these simple defenses were augmented with various ingenious architectural enhancements that improved both their defensive capabilities and their aesthetic qualities. 
