Introduction to Castleology












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            * Introduction to Castleology
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            For 11 years now, Czech doctoral students of History, Archaeology and related disciplines 

            first weekend of September for an annual Summer School of Medieval Studies. The traditiona
            the event being the ancient Sázava Monastery (approximately 1 hour from Prague), situated 
            of the same name. The event is organised by the Centre for Medieval Studies, a joint workp

            Institute of Philosophy of the Czech Academy of Sciences and Charles University. Thus, it 
            several dozens of young aspiring historians and their respective teachers.
            The Summer School weekend encourages lectures and seminars on various topics, ranging from

            musings over a medieval chronicle (or another relevant text), to a very practical applicat
            historical research (e.g. when discussing the heritage protection or exploration of the ar

            sites). In contrast, the evenings tend to be much more relaxed debates over a glass of win
            made grilled meat. This then evolves into a comfortable sing-along around a camp fire (acc
            guitar) until the late hours, a traditional Czech activity which is popular among students

            However, Sunday afternoon offers a different programme. Students lucky enough to stay this
            than rushing to catch their travel connections to the various ends of the Czech Republic),
            a half-day trip to the historically rich valley of the river Sázava or the surrounding reg

            around 25 of them explored the ruins of once mighty castle of Zlenice, learning their basi
            their knowledge) of a science called Castleology, a discipline dedicated solely to the res
            and their architecture.

            Standing amongst heaps of stones, the group and their guide discuss if the entrance gate o
            had two or more stone floors. A significant aspect that remains is a later added fireplace
            gate house, as well as the exact direction of the paths into the core of the castle, which

            gate houses and the circular defence walls. The viewing of a deep horizontal opening in on
            sparks a discussion of the wooden bar that was once used here, as well as the imprints of 
            inner palace walls. This subsequently leads to a debate regarding the former existence of 

            long since vanished floor.
            It is a delight to observe students in their element like this – what might have once segr
            from their peers in primary or secondary schools has now changed dramatically in finding c

            similar aspirations during their university years. The Summer School of Medieval Studies e
            equally minded future researchers of historical disciplines, from all corners of the Czech
            together once a year. In doing this they are not only given the opportunity to explore new

            country, but are able to unite their mutual interests within a fulfilling and sociable env
            doubt speaking for all participants when I voice a big thank you to all those involved in 
            special event on a regular basis.

                                                                                                      
            Jennifer Nee is a student of Drama and English and American Literature at the University o
            Literature at Charles University Prague for two semesters. She is a keen reader and writer
            the publishing sector. Therefore, she wanted to contribute to iForum to gain more experien
                                                                                                      
            to be a great opportunity to involve herself in the Czech culture; such as exploring their
            and cuisine amongst other things. Furthermore, she also believed the iForum to be a chance
            journalists.