A pele tower (also spelled peel tower) is a small fortified tower house found mainly in the border counties of northern England and southern Scotland. Built as a form of domestic defence in a region long troubled by raiding and conflict, these compact structures are often little more than a stone keep with thick walls, minimal openings and basic living quarters. Pele towers were a characteristic feature of the medieval border landscape, but largely ceased to be built after the sixteenth century.
Discover more from Encyclopedia of Design
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.