Belidors Ravelin fortification methods
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Belidors Ravelin fortification methods
Plate from 18th century encyclopedia showing an illustration of different methods of ravelin type fortification designed by Bernard Forest de Belidor. A ravelin is a triangular fortification or detached outwork, located in front of the innerworks of a fortress (the curtain walls and bastions). A ravelin is placed outside a castle and opposite a fortification curtain. The outer edges of the ravelin are so configured that it divides an assault force and from the ravelin guns can fire upon the attacking troops as they approach the curtain. It also impedes besiegers from using their artillery to batter a breech in the curtain wall. The side of the ravelin facing the inner fortifications has at best a low wall, if any, so that the ravelin would not shelter attacking forces should they have overwhelmed the ravelin, or the defenders have abandoned it
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Media ID 9269811
© DAVID PARKER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Castle Defence Encyclopedia Fortification Fortress Wall Bastion Belidor
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from the 18th-century encyclopedia showcases Belidor's innovative ravelin fortification methods. Designed by Bernard Forest de Belidor, these triangular outworks were strategically placed in front of fortress innerworks, such as curtain walls and bastions. The purpose of a ravelin was twofold: to divide an assaulting force and provide a vantage point for cannons to fire upon approaching troops. By obstructing besiegers' artillery from breaching the curtain wall, the ravelin played a crucial role in defending castles during times of war. Its outer edges were meticulously configured to impede enemy forces while offering protection for defenders within its confines. However, it is important to note that the side facing the inner fortifications had minimal or no walls at all, ensuring that attackers could not seek refuge should they overrun or capture the ravelin. This historic illustration serves as a testament to Belidor's ingenuity and his contributions to military architecture. It highlights both the intricacies involved in designing effective fortifications and their critical role in safeguarding against enemy advances. As we gaze upon this image captured by David Parker for Science Photo Library, we are reminded of the timeless importance of defense strategies throughout history.
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