An arrowslit, also known as a loophole or embrasure, is a narrow vertical opening in a wall or structure that is used for defense and observation purposes. It is a common feature in medieval fortifications, castles, and towers, and was designed to provide a line of sight to the exterior while protecting the defenders from direct attack. Arrowslits were typically constructed with a beveled edge and were designed to maximize the range and accuracy of the arrows fired through them. They were often built in pairs, with one situated above the other, to allow for a wide field of fire. In some cases, arrowslits were built with a crenelated top, which allowed defenders to fire from a sheltered position. Arrowslits were an important part of medieval military architecture, as they allowed defenders to shoot arrows at attackers while remaining protected behind the walls of the fortification. They were also used to direct sunlight or moonlight into the interior of the structure, which could then be used to aid navigation and navigation instruments. The arrowslit was typically small enough that an archer was able to fire from a standing position, and the walls of the arrowslit were often curved to deflect incoming projectiles. In addition to their defensive and observation purposes, arrowslits also had symbolic importance in medieval society. They were often decorated with intricate carvings or designs, which served to demonstrate the wealth and power of the castle or fortification's owner. Arrowslits were also used as a means of communication, as they could be used to signal to other parts of the fortification or to the surrounding countryside. Overall, arrowslits played a crucial role in medieval military architecture, providing defenders with a means of defense and observation while remaining protected behind the walls of the fortification. They were also an important symbol of power and wealth, and were often decorated with intricate carvings and designs.
medieval fortifications, castles, towers, military architecture, defense, observation, beveled edge, crenelated top, navigation, decoration, communication
CITATION : "Eric Walker. 'Arrowslit.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=249316 (Accessed on July 11, 2025)"
Arrowslit is a term used to describe a narrow vertical slit in a wall or structure that is used to shoot arrows from the interior. An arrowslit is typically found in fortifications of castles, towers, and other defensive structures, and was a common feature in medieval military architecture. It was used to provide a line of sight to the exterior while protecting the defenders from direct attack. The arrowslit was typically constructed with a beveled edge and was designed to maximize the range and accuracy of the arrows fired through it. The arrowslit could also be used to direct sunlight or moonlight into the interior of the structure, which could then be used to aid navigation and navigation instruments.
Archery, Defense, Slit, Fortification, Protection
An arrowslit is an architectural feature commonly seen in medieval fortifications, castles, and towers. It is a narrow vertical slit in the wall that allows archers to fire arrows at defenders and attackers alike. Arrowslits usually were built in pairs, with one situated above the other, to allow for a wide field of fire. In some cases, arrowslits were built with a crenelated top, which allowed defenders to fire from a sheltered position. Generally, arrowslits were small enough that an archer was able to fire from a standing position. The arrowslits were often made with curved walls to deflect incoming projectiles.
Castle, Tower, Defense, Siege, Weaponry.
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