[A bastion fort, star fort or trace italienne, is a fortification in a style that evolved during the age of gunpowder when the cannon came to dominate the battlefield. It was first seen in the mid-15th century in Italy.
The design of the fort is normally a pentagon or hexagon with bastions at the corners of the walls. These outcroppings are present for the purpose of a total, panoramic view of the battlefield. Because of the bastions, archers and cannon operators can hit any target on the battlefield without having to lean over the wall and expose themselves. Many bastion forts also feature cavaliers, which are raised secondary structures based entirely inside the primary structure.]
They were VERY popular throughout Europe and where state of the art for centuries. They proved very difficult and very costly to attack.
Probably the most famous version in the US is Fort McHenry designed to protect Baltimore harbour - of 'Star Spangled Banner' fame..... [grin]
6 comments:
Interesting layout. Any idea of its location?
It's Bourtange Star Fort in Netherlands. A design that was copied all over the world - including in Baltimore I believe....
Thanks for the information. I had never heard of the Star Fort.
i believe there are more star forts; i remember... well, i forget, but i think i've read about them before..
[A bastion fort, star fort or trace italienne, is a fortification in a style that evolved during the age of gunpowder when the cannon came to dominate the battlefield. It was first seen in the mid-15th century in Italy.
The design of the fort is normally a pentagon or hexagon with bastions at the corners of the walls. These outcroppings are present for the purpose of a total, panoramic view of the battlefield. Because of the bastions, archers and cannon operators can hit any target on the battlefield without having to lean over the wall and expose themselves. Many bastion forts also feature cavaliers, which are raised secondary structures based entirely inside the primary structure.]
They were VERY popular throughout Europe and where state of the art for centuries. They proved very difficult and very costly to attack.
Probably the most famous version in the US is Fort McHenry designed to protect Baltimore harbour - of 'Star Spangled Banner' fame..... [grin]
I think San Marcos in San Agustin is also a star fort...older design, of course.
Post a Comment