castellated

Castellated is an architectural term used to describe a building, wall, or other structure that has the features of a castle, typically including battlements along the parapet. The word derives from Latin castellatus, meaning castle-like, via Old French castellates, and has been used since the medieval period to denote fortifications with defensive crenellations.

A castellated wall usually consists of merlons (the raised portions) and crenels (the gaps) that provide cover for defenders. Towers may be integrated at intervals, and gatehouses or other elements can be castellated as well. While originally functional, the castellated form has endured beyond military uses, becoming a stylistic device in various architectural movements, most notably Gothic Revival, to convey a medieval or picturesque impression.

In contemporary usage, castellated can describe both decorative and genuine fortification features. Some modern buildings imitate crenellations for aesthetic reasons, while historic structures retain original castellation as part of their heritage. Restoration projects may seek to preserve or restore castellated elements to maintain historical accuracy, whereas new construction may employ castellation to evoke traditional or romantic associations with castles.