posterne

A posterne is a small, often postern gate in a castle or fortified building, usually located in a less conspicuous or less defended area, such as a wall or a turret. These gates were typically narrow and designed for single-file access, serving as a secondary entrance or exit. Their primary purpose was to allow for discreet movement of personnel, supplies, or even for sorties and sallies during a siege.

The term "posterne" derives from the Old French word "posterle," meaning "little door" or "back door." Historically, posterne gates were a common feature in medieval fortifications across Europe. They could be used for a variety of tactical advantages. For instance, a garrison might use a posterne to send out scouts or messengers without drawing attention, or to launch a surprise attack on besieging forces. Conversely, they could also provide a means of escape if the main gates were compromised.

The design of a posterne could vary significantly depending on the fortification. Some were simple wooden doors, while others were more robust, featuring iron fittings or even small drawbridges. Their placement was strategic, often concealed by projecting structures or natural terrain to minimize their visibility to attackers. The presence of posterne gates underscores the sophisticated defensive strategies employed in medieval castle design, emphasizing not only frontal assault deterrence but also the importance of maneuverability and secondary access points.