How to create an atmosphere: Old Castle
For clarification, castles are very different in different regions. This is mostly inspired by Central European stone castles.
Sight
towering stone walls, uneven and weathered by centuries
narrow windows letting in thin beams of pale light
dust particles drifting slowly in the air
high vaulted ceilings or low, oppressive archways depending on the room
faded tapestries hanging along the walls, depicting worn, half-forgotten scenes
long wooden tables, with scratches and holes in it
heavy iron-bound chests
flickering torches or candles casting dancing shadows
a grand fireplace, sometimes lit, sometimes cold and full of ash
spiral staircases going above or below
suits of armor standing around
portraits with eyes that seem to follow you
cracks in the stone
creeping ivy if parts are exposed to the outside
Hearing
the echo of footsteps against stone floors
a distant dripping of water from somewhere unseen
the low howl of wind through corridors, arrow slits, or broken windows
the flutter of a flag being hissed above the castle
the crackle and pop of fire in a hearth
the occasional creak of ancient wooden doors or beams shifting
the flutter of wings if birds or bats have found their way inside
the rustle of fabric as someone moves through heavy clothing or cloaks
Touch
the cold, rough texture of stone walls
air that feels damp and cool against your skin
uneven floors underfoot, worn steps, loose stones
the heaviness of wooden doors when pushed open
iron handles, cold and slightly rough
dust settling on your fingers when you brush against surfaces
the dry brittleness of old parchment or fabric
a sudden chill in certain corridors or rooms
the comforting warmth if you get close to a fire
Smell
damp stone and earth
a persistent mustiness from age and lack of fresh air
smoke from torches or fireplaces lingering in the air
old wood; dry, slightly sweet, slightly decayed
hints of mold in darker corners
if inhabited: faint traces of food, leather, or animal presence
cold air that smells faintly metallic or mineral
Taste
the dryness of dust in the air
the taste of stale air in enclosed spaces
air so crisp it almost feels like it has a taste of stone itself
the metallic tang of the cold environment
smoke from the fire lingering at the back of your throat
coarse bread, salted meat, or watered-down wine
More: How to create an atmosphere Masterpost
