Medieval Glossary
Dungeon
Although often described as an underground prison, the dungeon was more often used as a cellar for food and supplies.
Prisoners would usually be held in cells contained within either a small tower (turret) or a gatehouse. Gatehouses were often a preferred place for cells because it was easier for the castle's garrison to keep a close eye on them.
Related term(s): Gatehouse; Turret; Garrison; Castle
Category: Castles and Fortifications
Added: 09.07.04
Contributor(s):
Alan Chanter
Browse
Categorical
- Agriculture (26)
- Architecture (19)
- Armour and Shields (130)
- Arts and Literature (4)
- Buildings, Goods, and Materials (35)
- Castles and Fortifications (148)
- Clothing (28)
- Dynasties and Groups (19)
- Eastern Christianity (3)
- Feudalism (41)
- Food and Drink (11)
- Government and Law (89)
- Heraldry (68)
- Islam (6)
- Knighthood and Chivalry (43)
- Military - General (108)
- Occupations and Positions (25)
- Places (5)
- Siege Weapons and Artillery (17)
- Society (71)
- Trade and Coinage (14)
- Troop Types (21)
- Universities and Education (7)
- Village, Town, and City (9)
- Weapons (88)
- Weights and Measures (50)
- Western Christianity (132)