An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c19.s9.1

v1.c19.s9.1

Fortifications in the archaeological context can be defined as protective or defensive works or enclosures around any settlement or area with or without a ditch or moat. Such defensive structures are built on a formal or informal plan and generally bear a massive character. At times such structural works cover only three sides of the respective habitational area. The principal structural features of any ancient fortification are massive walls with attached quadrangular or semicircular bastions to strengthen the walled structure and to serve as watch-towers, besides one or more gates sometimes even with the guard-rooms.