ramparts

Ramparts are fortified enclosing structures around a town, fortress, or castle, typically consisting of raised earthworks or masonry designed to resist assault. They may be earth ramps faced with stone or brick, or solid stone walls. A defining feature is the parapet along the top, often with merlons and crenellations, providing cover for defenders. In front of the rampart, a glacis and sometimes a ditch or moat increase the obstacle to attackers. Gatehouses and towers are commonly integrated into rampart systems.

Design and evolution: The concept originated in ancient and medieval warfare, providing height, visibility, and a defended line for archers or soldiers. Ramparts could be built as earthen ramparts capped with rubble or masonry, allowing rapid construction. With gunpowder artillery, walls were thicker and lower, and bastions or towers become important for field of fire. Defensive features include ditches, barbicans, and controlled gates.

Geographic and historical context: Ramparts surround cities, castles, and fortresses around the world. Notable examples include the medieval ramparts of Carcassonne in France and the extensive wall system of the Great Wall of China, which includes rampart-like sections and watchtowers.

Today, many ramparts survive as historic monuments, preserved for study and tourism. They are important subjects in the study of military architecture and archaeology, and several are protected as cultural heritage sites.