Balmoral Castle, Scotland
What could be better than a vacation castle in Scotland? Queen Victoria and Prince Albert definitely enjoyed their getaway at Balmoral Castle, but at the time, Scotland still had a reputation for being wild and dangerous. Fortunately, the royal couple had no need to defend themselves, because this fairytale structure is actually a palace, not a fortified castle.
Balmoral’s broad and low windows are the first clue that its intent is luxury, not security. Fortress castles feature narrow arrow slits so that defenders can see and shoot out but attackers can’t get any missiles in. Balmoral’s windows are clearly intended to let in the light and views instead. Also, in place of defensible walls, charming gardens ring this building.
While its romantic turrets evoke the ideal of an earlier time, its overall architecture doesn’t reflect the more austere practicality of actual medieval castles. But living in Balmoral would certainly be far more comfortable!
Thought for writers: based on the stability and advancement of their kingdoms, should your rulers live in castles or palaces?
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