Barbican

Barbican (from mediæval Latin barbecana) - a fortified outpost or gateway, such as an outer defence to a city or castle and any tower situated over a gate or bridge which was used for defence purposes. Usually barbicans were situated outside of the main line of defences and connected to the city walls with a walled road called the neck.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In 15th century, with the improvement in siege tactics and artillery, barbicans lost their significance. However, several barbicans were built even in 16th century.

Related Topics:
15th century - Siege - Artillery - 16th century

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~