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Who Runs a Castle?

Published in Castle Management Titles 2 mins read

A castellan, or constable, runs a castle.

In medieval Europe, the individual responsible for governing a castle was known specifically as a castellan or sometimes a constable. These titles designated the person in charge of the fortress's administration, defense, and overall operation.

According to historical information:

A castellan, or constable, was the governor of a castle in medieval Europe. Its surrounding territory was referred to as the castellany.

This reference clearly identifies the primary individual in charge. Their duties would typically involve maintaining the structure, managing the garrison, overseeing supplies, and administering justice within the castle and its associated territory, known as the castellany.

Understanding the role of the castellan:

  • Governance: They held authority delegated by the castle's owner (a king, lord, etc.).
  • Military Command: Often responsible for the castle's defense and the soldiers stationed there.
  • Administration: Managed resources, personnel, and sometimes collected revenue from the castellany.
Title Role Location
Castellan Governor/Commander of a Castle Medieval Europe
Constable Governor/Commander of a Castle Medieval Europe
Castellany Territory governed by the Castellan Medieval Europe

While the ultimate ownership lay with a lord or monarch, the day-to-day management and effective running of the castle were the responsibility of the castellan or constable.

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