How many castles are there approximately in the world?

It's challenging to determine the precise number of castles globally due to different definitions, varying classifications, and the existence of historical remnants and ruins. However, it's estimated that there could be around 100,000 to 200,000 castles worldwide. This includes fortified structures that were built for defense, residence, or administrative purposes throughout history.

Castle definitions can vary based on cultural and historical contexts, making it challenging to provide a unified count. Some sources may include fortresses, fortified manors, and walled enclosures within the castle category, while others may classify them differently.

Additionally, the remnants of ancient castles or fortifications that are no longer fully intact or have been significantly altered may still hold historical significance. These ruins and remnants also contribute to the overall number of castles, although they might not necessarily qualify as complete or habitable structures.

It's worth noting that the distribution of castles varies greatly by region. Some countries, such as Germany, France, and Japan, are known for their large concentrations of castles, while others may have fewer or more recent castles.

Due to the multifaceted nature of identifying and categorizing castles globally, it's challenging to provide an exact figure. However, the approximate estimate of 100,000 to 200,000 castles offers some insight into the extensive legacy and enduring presence of these historic structures across the world.