History of Castles Castles did not just appear, but rather evolved over a long time. The first castles were nothing more than wooden forts. But by the 15th century they had evolved into magnificent works of art. Castles have been around since before history was recorded. The first forms of castles were for protection, and evolved from the structures that fortified many Roman cities. This form of castle evolved into the Motte- and-bailey castle, which consisted of a wooden citadel placed atop a motte (hill), and a larger courtyard below, both were enclosed by a wooden fortification, and usually surrounded by a moat. The Motte-and-bailey las