What is themotte?

The term "motte" refers to a type of medieval fortification that was widely used in Europe during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. This type of fortification was typically constructed by building a raised mound of earth or stone, known as a motte, and then erecting a wooden or stone keep on top of it. The motte and keep system was highly effective in defending against attackers and was used extensively by Norman conquerors after the Norman Conquest of England in 1066.

The motte and keep system usually consisted of a central mound or hill, which served as the main defensive structure, and surrounding ditch or moat. The motte was often steeply sloped, making it difficult for attackers to scale, and was sometimes surrounded by a wooden palisade or fence.

Mottes could range in height from just a few meters to over 30 meters, with taller mottes providing greater defensive advantages. The size of the motte would depend on the amount of time, resources, and workforce available for construction. The mounds were often supported by wooden or stone retaining walls to ensure their stability.

The motte system was used primarily during the early Middle Ages but declined in popularity as new forms of fortification, such as castles and fortified cities, were developed. Today, many mottes can still be seen across Europe, although most have been reduced to ruins or earthworks. Some, however, have been restored and are popular tourist attractions, including the motte and bailey castle at Dover, England, and the Motte du Bourg in France.