Hohenstein Castle (Burg Hohenstein), a picturesque medieval castle located in the Franconian region of Bavaria, Germany.
The castle was built on a high promontory and was first recorded in history in the 11th century.
Taufers Castle (Castel Taufers) is a breathtaking medieval fortress nestled in the picturesque South Tyrol region of northern Italy, near the charming town of Sand in Taufers. Dating back to the 12th century, it stands as one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the area, offering stunning views of the lush Ahrntal valleys and majestic mountain peaks.
Originally built by the noble Taufers family, the castle was designed for protection and control over the valley below. Over centuries, it has been carefully expanded and renovated, showcasing a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Its thick stone walls, defensive towers, and expansive courtyard transport visitors back to the heart of medieval life.
Dura-Europos. The Romans decisively captured Dura-Europos in 165 AD and greatly enlarged it as their easternmost stronghold in Mesopotamia, until it was captured by the SasanianEmpire after a siege in 256-257 AD. Its population was deported, and the abandoned city eventually became covered by sand and mud and disappeared from sight.
Hunaudaye Castle (Château de la Hunaudaye), located in Brittany, France, was originally constructed around the year 1220 by Olivier Tournemine, a feudal lord. The castle was designed as a fortified residence with a large moat and impressive defensive towers, reflecting the military architecture of the 13th century. Over the centuries, it underwent various modifications, especially in the 15th century, to adapt to evolving warfare technologies. The castle was damaged during the French Revolution and left in ruins, but it has since been partially restored and is now open to the public as a historical monument.
Aerial view of the Aleppo Citadel from the south-west MADA
In the Aleppo building campaign that lasted from 1505-6 and then 1509-10, Mamluk Sultan Qansuh al-Ghuri constructed the lower tower MADA
Whenever I see the Aleppo Citadel I always wish I could see what it looked like back in the time it was built and operational. If it looks impressive now as a ruin, what would it have looked like then?