Moat Ditch

By Crusader1307

A Moat is a deep and broad dug ditch (dry or filled with water), that surrounds a Castle or related fortified structure. They are considered a preliminary “first line” of defense. In some instances, Moats evolved into more elaborate and extensive water defenses (natural and artificial lakes and ponds as well as sluices and dams). Moats are not a product of Medieval warfare, as their use can be documented as far back as Ancient Egypt. “Wet” Moats became an effective method of preventing Miners (and Counter Miners) from exploiting a Castle or related fortifications walls during a siege.