Town walls are defensive structures built around a settlement to protect it from invasions and attacks. They were commonly made of stone or brick and often included towers and gates for better defense and control of entry points. Many historic towns still have remnants of these walls, showcasing their architectural significance. In addition to their protective function, town walls also served as a symbol of a community's strength and independence. They often enclosed important buildings, such as town halls and churches, and sometimes featured walkways for guards to patrol. Today, many towns preserve these walls as cultural heritage sites.