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The Motte and Bailey is a unique improvement in the 1066: Year of Viking Destiny scenario of Civilization V.

Game Info

Defensive improvement. Only a Norman Swordsman may build it.

  • Constructed on:
  • Effect:
    • Gives +100% defensive Melee strength Melee strength Combat Strength to a unit on the tile.
    • Deals 3 damage to enemy units that end their turn on adjacent tiles.

Strategy

The Motte and Bailey is indispensable for entrenching Norman troops in strategic locations. It is essentially the same as a Citadel, but can be constructed without sacrificing a Great General. Have your Swordsmen build it in open terrain next to captured cities to ensure that the English will suffer heavy losses when they try to retake them.

Historical Info

A design first attributed to the Normans in the 10th century, the motte-and-bailey was a type of elevated castle built on top of a raised earthwork mound. The Motte was formed by digging a trench around the prospective castle site. The leftover fill-dirt was then used to construct an artificial hill or mound, upon which the castle itself was built. The "Bailey" refers to the lower courtyard, typically enclosed by a large wall, containing a barracks, servants' quarters, and storage buildings. Any unit stationed within a Motte and Bailey receives a 100% defensive strength bonus. Additionally, any enemy unit which ends its turn next to a Motte and Bailey takes 3 damage.

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