However, some Medieval images prove the existence of this weapon at that time. During the 20th century, a look-a-like weapon, a flame thrower, was introduced, leading to many conflicts related to its existence. The Byzantine Flamethrower was introduced in the 1200s during the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine Flame Thrower “ The Byzantine Flamethrower” by Gts-tg licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 It used to fire the missiles in a volley at a very high speed, showering iron bolts towards the enemies. It used to contain small-calibre iron barrels set on its platform. The Ribauldequin, also known as the Organ Gun, was a Medieval weapon that moved on wheels. The Ribauldequin “ The Ribauldequin” by Sémhur licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ![]() Also, the defenders who used to carry this Medieval siege weapon were left with no energy to fight against enemies. It was very effective for demolishing walls and gates, but the carriers were left vulnerable due to its heavyweight. It was a large wooden log carried by many men to swing it at the enemy’s army. The Battering Ram was used to smash the castle’s structure and other enemy grounds. The Battering Ram “ The Battering Ram“, by BabelStone is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 The only difference was the force used to launch the objects. The Mangonel required manpower to pull ropes to swing the arm, while the Counterweight system followed a more gravitational and updated arm swinging system. There were two types of Trebuchet, Mangonel and Counterweight systems. It was designed to replace the catapult so that it could handle the launching of heavyweight objects and throw them to a greater distance. The Trebuchet was the simplest but most effective Medieval siege weapon. The Trebuchet “ The Trebuchet“, by Colin Howley, is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 Usually, it was used to fire rocks, pebbles, and arrows. It could be easily held in two hands, and another person could put the ignition using hot iron or matches. This weapon was first used in China, and in the 14th century, it became popular in Europe. Additionally, it came with a touch hole that the defenders used to attack their enemies. It was a simple metal barrel firearm that was manually ignited. Hand Cannon, also known as ‘Gonne’, was the first firearm weapon used during middle age. The Hand Cannon “ Hand Cannon”, by Cleveland Museum of Art, is licensed under CC0 1.0 Here is a list of the most deadly medieval siege weapons: 1. However, the modern weapons were just the upgraded versions of the weapons used in the Middle age, so they never lost their charm completely. With time, the usage of old Medieval Siege weapons decreased, and modern weapons took their place. It was important to upgrade with time to survive the attacks from modern siege guns. Even new siege artillery was developed during World War I and II. And these weapons were upgraded depending on their needs. After the 15th century, other advanced military weapons like gunpowder, firearms, and more were developed. The distinctive contribution of the siege weapons was to set fire, throw arrows and stones towards enemies, and block the food and war supply of the enemies. Most Medieval siege weapons were even taken from China, Egypt, and other countries. The major weapons seen in that era were Ballista, Battering Ram, Catapult, Siege Tower, and Trebuchet. The castles and kings with the most weapons were considered more powerful. All weapons had their different features and contributed uniquely in showing the power. ![]() Siege Weapons in middle age were designed to survive the battles and destroy enemy castles. And that’s where the development of Medieval Siege Weapons experienced a boom. So although castles existed for centuries, the Medieval castles were different and were designed while keeping military requirements and protection against attacks in mind. Many castles were constructed as well as a symbol of power. During these ages, we have seen a lot of political, social, and military-related changes in Europe. The Medieval era or Middle age in Europe is more than 1000 years old and is divided into three smaller periods: Early Middle Age, High Middle Age, and Late Middle Age. 3 Summary History of Medieval Siege Weapons
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