December 3, 2019
According to
Nerdist, medieval architects built staircases to wrap around in a
clockwise direction in order to disadvantage any enemies who might climb
them. Since most soldiers wielded swords in their right hands, this
meant that their swings would be inhibited by the inner wall, and they’d
have to round each curve before striking—fully exposing themselves in
the process.
Just
as the clockwise spiral hindered attackers, so, too, did it favor the
castle’s defenders. As they descended, they could swing their swords
in arcs that matched the curve of the outer wall, and use the inner
wall as a partial shield. And, because the outer wall runs along the
wider edge of the stairs, there was also more room for defenders to
swing. So, if you’re planning on storming a medieval castle any time
soon, you should try to recruit as many left-handed
soldiers as possible. And if you’re defending one, it’s best to station
your lefties on crossbow duty and leave the tower-defending to the
righties.
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