What is the upstanding part of an embattled parapet, located between crenels or embrasure openings?

What is the upstanding part of an embattled parapet, located between crenels or embrasure openings?

• A. Crenels
• B. Merlons
• C. Parapet
• D. Battlement

Answer: (B)

In a crenellated parapet, the raised solid block between the gaps is called a merlon. Crenels (or embrasures) are the openings that allow defenders to observe or shoot through. The whole arrangement—the alternating solid merlons and gaps crenels—forms a battlement or crenellated parapet. Merlons provide cover for defenders while the crenels give them firing positions, which is why the upstanding part between the openings is identified as a merlon.

In a crenellated parapet, the raised solid block between the gaps is called a merlon. Crenels (or embrasures) are the openings that allow defenders to observe or shoot through. The whole arrangement—the alternating solid merlons and gaps crenels—forms a battlement or crenellated parapet. Merlons provide cover for defenders while the crenels give them firing positions, which is why the upstanding part between the openings is identified as a merlon.