Almenas

Almenas, also known as crenels, are the solid, upright sections of a battlement (crenelation) found atop fortifications such as castles, towers, and city walls. They alternate with open spaces called merlons or embrasures. The almenas provide defensive cover for soldiers or defenders positioned behind the battlement, allowing them to fire upon attackers while being partially shielded.

The height and width of almenas varied depending on the era, region, and specific defensive requirements of the fortification. Their design was often influenced by the available building materials and the prevailing siege warfare techniques of the time. Variations included simple rectangular shapes, stepped designs, and even those with loopholes for enhanced visibility and firing positions.

Functionally, almenas were crucial components of a defensive system, allowing defenders to observe and engage the enemy without exposing themselves fully. The combination of almenas and merlons provided a balance between protection and offensive capability. The term is often used synonymously with "crenel," although "crenel" technically refers to the opening (merlon) between the almenas.