Bastion

A bastion is a projecting part of a fortification built at an angle to the line of a wall, so as to allow defensive fire in several directions. Bastions are a key element of fortress design in the age of gunpowder warfare, evolving from earlier forms of fortification to better withstand artillery bombardment.

Etymology: The word "bastion" comes from the Old French word bastille, meaning "tower". This in turn comes from the Late Latin word bastida, meaning "fortification".

Purpose and Function: The primary purpose of a bastion is to eliminate dead ground, areas where defenders cannot see or shoot at attackers approaching the walls. By projecting outwards, bastions allow defenders to enfilade (sweep with gunfire along its length) the faces of adjacent bastions and the curtain walls connecting them. This creates a crossfire that makes it extremely difficult for attackers to approach the walls undetected or unharassed. Bastions also provide a platform for mounting artillery, allowing defenders to engage attackers at a greater distance.

Evolution of Bastion Design: Bastions evolved over time in response to advancements in artillery technology. Early bastions were often small and rounded, but as artillery became more powerful, they were redesigned to be larger, lower, and angular. This made them more resistant to cannon fire and provided a wider field of fire for defenders. The development of the trace italienne, or Italian style of fortification, in the 15th and 16th centuries saw the widespread adoption of star forts with elaborate bastion systems.

Key Characteristics:

• Projection: Bastions project outwards from the main walls of the fortification.
• Angles: They are typically angular in shape, allowing for enfilading fire.
• Flanks: The sides of a bastion that connect to the curtain walls are called flanks.
• Faces: The sides of a bastion that face outwards towards the enemy are called faces.
• Gorge: The rear of a bastion, where it connects to the interior of the fortress.
• Materials: Bastions are typically constructed of earth, brick, or stone, depending on the available resources and the technology of the time.

Decline: With the development of ever more powerful artillery in the 19th century, bastion fortifications became increasingly vulnerable. High explosive shells could easily breach the walls and destroy the bastions. As a result, bastion fortifications were gradually replaced by other types of fortifications, such as polygonal forts and detached forts. However, many examples of bastion fortifications can still be seen around the world today, serving as a reminder of a key era in military history.