The Shell Keep represented a logical progression in the evolution of castles, which were initially constructed following the Motte and Bailey design. This raises the question regarding the characteristics of the castles that the Normans erected in the twelfth century on sites that had not been previously occupied. These structures were known as Rectangular Keeps, featuring fortified enclosures that corresponded closely to the Shell Keep and the bailey. Rectangular Keeps had been a significant as ... (Read More)