shell keeps
- Scope note
- Norman keeps, usually on the sites of older structures, and consisting of a stone wall on top of a motte, or steep mound. Within this wall, or shell, other buildings were contructed, using the wall as support, leaving an open courtyard in the center. A successor to the motte-and-bailey castle.
- Date of creation: 29-Apr-2024
Accepted term: 29-Apr-2024