Alnwick Castle, entrance tower
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Originally a simple motte-and-bailey castle, Alnwick Castle was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. Acquired by Henry Percy in 1309, the Percy family was responsible for maintaining and developing the castle and in c.1310-20 they added the gatehouse and barbican. As can be seen in the drawing, the round arched entrance is flanked by two square towers, then the barbican is made up of two polygonal towers behind. On top of the battlements are figures of soldiers supposed to be repelling attack. These are not contemporary to the castle but are thought to be based on original similar stone figures.
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