Tonight we are having a triple feature watching Sleeping Beauty, Maleficent and Malefcent: Mistress of Evil for our #Movienightfriday. What you may not know is that Sleeping Beauty was set in France but by the Swiss Alps as you can see when Aurora is singing “Once Upon a Dream.” Now I will talk far more about France when I cover Cinderella, but Sleeping Beauty is a great example of architecture and Medieval Castles. But to recap that lesson, Sleeping Beauty’s castle both in the film and in Disneyland, California are based on Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.

Medieval castles were built from the 11th century CE for rulers to demonstrate their wealth and power to the local populace, to provide a place of defence and safe retreat in the case of attack, defend strategically important sites like river crossings, passages through hills, mountains and frontiers, and as a place of residence. Whether a permanent home for a local lord or a temporary one for a ruler embarking on a tour of their kingdom, castles were converted from wood into stone and became ever more impressive structures with more and more defensive features such as round towers and fortified gates.

The typical features of a medieval castle were:

• Moat – a perimeter ditch with or without water
• Barbican – a fortification to protect a gate
• Curtain Walls & Towers – the perimeter defensive wall
• Fortified Gatehouse – the main castle entrance
• Keep (aka Donjon or Great Tower) – the largest tower and best stronghold of the castle
• Bailey or Inner Ward (courtyard) – the area within a curtain wall.

Crafts

Sleeping Beauty Mickey Ears Paper Craft – The Inspiration Edit

“We love the story of Sleeping Beauty and today on Craft Play Learn, I am sharing this super cute Sleeping Beauty paper craft. If you’re little one is a fan of Aurora, then he or she will love this Sleeping Beauty Christmas Ornament Idea. ” – Angela

DIY Maleficent Craft With Free Disney Template – The Inspiration Edit

“Maleficent is an interesting character when it comes to Disney Villains. As a child I grew up knowing her from the movie Sleeping Beauty, however since Maleficent 1 and 2 came out, I now know quite a bit more about this Disney character. ” – Angela

Menu

German Plum Cake (Pflaumenkuchen) – Little Sunny Kitchen

“Pflaumenkuchen, also known as zwetchgenkuchen. A German Plum cake made with ripe plums. Moist, sweet, spongy, and delicious!” – Diana

Gluten-Free Crescent Rolls (The BEST Ever!) – This Vivacious Life

“Gluten-free crescent rolls that are literally the BEST you have ever tasted! Thanks to a special blend of gluten-free flour, they are flaky, fluffy and so delicious. Nobody would ever know they are gluten-free!” – Chandice

FRENCH CHARCUTERIE PLATTER – Recipes from a Pantry

“A French Charcuterie Platter is an easy and delicious appetizer that is ideal for all sorts of occasions. Assemble for casual picnics and gatherings, or create as a centerpiece at cocktail parties and special events. These simple tips will help you create the perfect charcuterie board! – Bintu

GERMAN CHEESY LEEK SOUP – pandemonium noshery

“This cheesy soup is a German classic adapted from “Where’s My Spoon?” that is perfect for dairy month. It’s also perfect for Saturday Soup Swappers, who’s theme this month is “Cheesy Soups” . The cream and cheese make for a satisfying and delicious meal and pair beautifully with the pork and leeks. And as an added bonus this recipe is so very, very, easy to throw together. ” – Juli

GERMAN POTATO SALAD – Dinner at the Zoo

“This German potato salad is boiled baby potatoes tossed in a warm bacon and mustard dressing, then garnished with fresh herbs. A unique, mayonnaise free salad that’s great for parties and potlucks.” – Jacque

BAKED BRIE WITH RASPBERRIES AND PECANS – Dinner at the Zoo

“This baked brie is topped with raspberry jam, fresh raspberries and candied pecans, then is wrapped in puff pastry and baked to golden brown perfection. A quick and easy appetizer option that is sure to impress your family and friends.” – Jacque