Matsumoto Castle
Matsumoto Castle is located on Honshu Island in the city of the same name. This architectural creation is the largest and most beautiful building in Japan. The castle was popularly known as the "Black Raven" because of the black color of the walls and roof, similar to the wings of a raven. The architectural complex has been built since 1504 for almost 40 years on a plain where there was originally a swamp. The area of the building with the adjacent territory is 39 hectares.
Matsumoto Castle is reliably protected from enemy intrusion, surrounded by a moat and a high stone wall. These fences have not been preserved to this day.
The architectural creation of the Japanese includes one central citadel, consisting of six floors and two auxiliary towers. All of them are connected by covered walkways. Each of the floors differs from each other in style and purpose. From the first to the third floor, the buildings were intended for the storage of weapons. On the fourth floor, the apartments of the princely family were arranged. A command post was located on the fifth floor, in particular for military leaders.
The main upper floor is called the "Samurai Hall", it was from this height that the samurai warriors watched the surrounding area to prevent enemy attacks.
A separate completed tower was designed to observe the moon and reflect in silence on the meaning of life.
Since all Japanese people are short, all buildings have low ceilings. As a result, it is possible to move up the stairs only in a half-bent state, which is very inconvenient for Europeans.
To this day, Matsumoto Castle, which is more than five centuries old, is preserved in its original form. Despite the fact that bloody battles took place twice on its territory, it was possible to preserve the building almost without damage.
The walls have only slightly bent inwards due to the periodic earthquakes on the island. In the 20th century, the building was subject to restoration.
Matsumoto Castle is surrounded by a beautiful garden with neatly trimmed sakura trees and luxurious beds of chrysanthemums. The former moat has been replaced by a picturesque pond in which beautiful swans swim, among other inhabitants are carp.
The Matsumoto historical and architectural monument is included in the list of "National Treasures of Japan", which is most popular with tourists. Many festivals and concerts are held on its territory.
