Fortified Cities by Sabine Lorca

Fortified Cities explores the profound impact of military strategy on urban design throughout history. Examining fortified cities from ancient times to the early modern period, the book reveals how the constant threat of war shaped urban landscapes and societal structures. One intriguing insight is how innovations in siege technology, such as battering rams and siege towers, spurred corresponding advancements in defensive architecture, creating a continuous cycle of adaptation. The book argues that understanding urban fortification is essential for grasping historical conflicts and appreciating the enduring influence of military considerations on urban development.

The book delves into the evolution of defensive urban planning, the role of fortified cities in historical conflicts, and the dynamics of siege warfare, considering both attacker and defender perspectives. For example, the strategic placement of walls, gates, towers, and moats was crucial for effective defense. Structured in three parts, the book progresses from foundational principles like glacis and bastions to case studies of specific cities like Constantinople and Vienna, ultimately analyzing the evolution of siege tactics and technologies.

This unique approach integrates military history with fields like archaeology, architecture, and political science, offering a holistic understanding of urban fortification's impact. Drawing upon archaeological reports and historical chronicles, Fortified Cities adopts a balanced perspective, highlighting the strategic rationale behind defensive designs and the interplay between attack and defense, making it valuable for military history enthusiasts and students of urban planning alike.