medieval stronghold
Walled feudal fortress
A medieval stronghold is a fortified structure from the Middle Ages—a castle, fortress, or walled town built primarily for defense.
The term emphasizes military function over residence: The rebels retreated to their medieval stronghold in the mountains.
Figuratively, stronghold describes any place where something persists or dominates, and medieval adds connotations of being outdated or resistant to change.
- arrow slitsNarrow openings for archers
- murder holesFortification ceiling openings for attack
- boiling oilHeated fat for warfare
- stone wallsRefuses to cooperate
- keepRetain or fortified tower
barbican · donjon · great hall · crenellations · feudalism · moat · walled city · portcullis · ramparts · gatehouse · curtain wall · guardsman · knight · battlements · siege engines · siege warfare · drawbridge · squire
medieval, castle, castles, medium, medial, median, mediate, mediation, mediator