Vorwerk (fortification)
A Vorwerk is a fortified structure that was in front of the actual castle (also called a fieldwork ).
In the Middle Ages, outer works were usually located in smaller villages that were in front of the central seat of the castle. Members of the respective knightly family often lived in them . From this derives, the outer works are called knight seats and popularly as a castle . They were able to repel minor attacks and offered protection to the population of the village. They served as an early warning system for the castle in the event of major attacks. Since the Vorwerk should function autonomously, a connection with agricultural goods was possible, which then became (Vorwerk) manors . Later they also took on administrative tasks. In the course of time, Vorwerke also developed away from the castle into independent systems.
Individual evidence
- ↑ The fort belt of the Ingolstadt fortress is unique. accessed on October 27, 2015