Castle Sheet
Introduction
A yett (from the Old English and Scots word "Scots (Germanic language)") for "gate")[1] is a gate or gate of latticed wrought iron bars "Latticework (architecture)") used for defensive purposes in castles and tower houses.[2] Unlike a portcullis "Porlle (architecture)"), which is raised and lowered vertically by mechanical means, yetts have hinged in the manner of a traditional door,[3] and are secured with bolts fixed to the door or by long bars extracted from the wall or door.[4].
Geographic distribution
Yetts are predominantly found in Scotland, where most towers, particularly later ones, were fitted with them rather than portcullises,[6] but some iron gates are found in the border counties of England. While few references to yetts exist outside of Scotland, a 1416 English report on Roxburg Castle (then in English hands) contained recommendations for the insertion of iron gates.[7] Yetts They are not restricted to any region or district within Scotland, but are widespread.[8].
In Scotland, similar grille constructions, often also called louvers, were used over windows and other openings.[9] These were usually fixed in place, often on jambs, thresholds and lintels.[3].
Origins and use
The first references to yetts date from the 19th century.[10] Échiquier Rolls of 1377 refers to a "fabricated iron gate", part of the defenses of the Tower of David in Edinburgh Castle.[11] Yetts also appear in other castles at around the same time. Craigmillar, built shortly after 1374, supposedly contained a yett, and Doune Castle (c. 1380) still retains its original double-leafed yett; at Balvenie there is a similar double-leafed yett, but its age is uncertain.[7] By the 19th century, door bars and window bars had become standard features on Scottish castles and towers.[7]
The yett was frequently used as a cheaper alternative to the portcullis,[12] as it was simpler in concept, less cumbersome and more practical.[7] However, it was also used within more complex defensive arrangements. The century castle at Doune in Perthshire had a portcullis at the main entrance door complemented by a yett, with a second yett at the far end of the hall. Each of the hoppers had two leaves, with a pedestrian door incorporated within one of the leaves.[13] The latch is usually placed behind a wooden door, providing additional security in case the outer door burns down.[14].