Maruoka Castle

Fukui

Maruoka-jo (1576) claims to be the oldest remaining keep in Japan. It was destroyed by an earthquake in 1948, but subsequently rebuilt with most of its original materials, including the wooden interior and stone roof tiles. Because stone tiles were used on the roof, it is unusually heavy - 120 tons has been quoted. The reason for using stone tiles is said to be thermal insulation during the winter months.