Portcullis

The portcullis (also portcullis ) is part of the door construction late antique and medieval fortifications and castles.

Portcullis are usually made ​​of lattice-like laminated wood beams, which are often exacerbated by iron fittings. The gate is moved vertically while mostly guided in lateral wall gutters. With the help of chains and shafts, it is raised and lowered down. The sturdy wooden construction can go down very quickly and amplified in the closed position the gate. The portcullis can also be used to prevent an enemy penetrated into the gatehouse at the retreat.

Iron portcullis at Stirling Castle

Portcullis at the Palazzo d' Accursio, Bologna

Wall gutters of a portcullis of the castle ruins in Hastings

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