15 AMAZING Old Fortresses
15 AMAZING Old Fortresses
Transcript
00:00Hey everybody, step back in time with me and discover the architectural marvels of
00:04ancient fortresses that dot the landscape around the world. Built on imposing heights
00:09and rugged terrains, these structures were designed to defend and dominate.
00:14Join me, I'm counting down the top 15 most amazing old fortresses, starting with number 15,
00:19the Vatican. The Vatican is widely recognized as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church
00:25and the residence of the Pope, also holding the title as the smallest country in the world.
00:30Now, historically, the area has emerged as a religious site when Emperor Constantine built
00:35a Christian basilica there in the 4th century. Initially, a humble part of Rome during the
00:40Roman Empire, it featured the Circus of Nero and a necropolis for Saint Peter. Throughout the
00:45medieval period, though, the Vatican faced numerous security challenges due to frequent invasions and
00:50internal conflicts. As the papacy's seat, it did become a focal point for attacks.
00:55The need for a robust defense led to significant fortifications, including the construction of the
01:00Leonine Wall in the 9th century by Pope Leo IV. This wall, which encircled the Vatican,
01:06was equipped with watchtowers and battlements to fend off sacrosanct raiders and protect the
01:11Basilica of Saint Peter. Subsequent centuries saw further enhancements to their defenses,
01:16such as the building of the Apostolic Palace and the Vatican Library, which were strategically
01:21designed to strengthen the area's security. Pope Alexander VI added a secret passage linking the
01:27Vatican to Castel Sant'Angelo, providing an escape route for the Pope in case of breach.
01:32Established in 1506, the Swiss Guard continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the Pope
01:37and the Vatican, a responsibility they still uphold today.
01:4214. The Königstein Fortress in Germany Königstein Fortress, perched on a hilltop
01:49overlooking the Elbe River near Dresden in Germany, dates back to the 13th century when it
01:54was first documented as a medieval castle. Standing 240 meters high, it offered an ideal defensive
02:00location and initially served as a refuge for the local community during conflicts.
02:05Over the centuries, though, the fortress underwent numerous expansions and enhancements to meet the
02:09evolving military needs in the region, and the most significant modifications happened in the
02:1316th century under Elector Augustus of Saxony, who fortified the walls and added new buildings
02:19to support a larger garrison. Today, visitors can admire the well-preserved Renaissance and
02:24Baroque architecture within the complex, including notable structures like the Johannesburg,
02:29Georgienburg, and Magdalenenburg. This fortress also featured an advanced water supply system,
02:34including a deep well drilled into the rock to ensure a reliable water source.
02:39Königstein's strategic location made it a key player in numerous historical conflicts,
02:43such as the Thirty Years' War and the Napoleonic Wars. It served as a various stronghold for
02:48troops, a storage site for supplies, and a refuge for civilians, maintaining its military relevance
02:54until the late 19th century, long after many European fortresses had become obsolete.
03:0013. Fort Jefferson in the Florida Keys, United States
03:05Fort Jefferson, located in the Dry Tortugas National Park of the Florida Keys,
03:10is a significant example of 19th century military architecture. Construction began in 1846 as part
03:16of the United States' efforts to strengthen its coastal defenses. It's positioned about 70 miles
03:21west of Key West, and its location allowed it to control the shipping lanes in the Gulf of Mexico.
03:27This hexagonal fort was intended to accommodate 450 guns and act as both a deterrent to potential
03:33invaders and as a sanctuary for American ships under threat. However, building the fort proved
03:38to be a bit of a challenge due to its remote location and the logistical demands of transporting
03:43over 16 million bricks from the mainland. It was designed to be self-sufficient in a harsh
03:48tropical climate. It featured rainwater collection systems and storerooms for provisions. Although
03:54never fully completed, Fort Jefferson stands as one of the largest brick structures in the western
03:58hemisphere, with walls reaching 45 feet high and enclosing half a mile of perimeter. It's designed
04:04to include casemates, bastions, and moat to enhance its defense. During the American Civil
04:10War, the fort functioned as a Union military prison, but never engaged in combat. Advances
04:15in military technology and shifts in strategies rendered it obsolete by the late 19th century,
04:21but it did serve various military purposes until 1935, when it was designated a national
04:26monument by President Franklin Roosevelt. 12. Murad Janjira, India
04:33Murad Janjira stands on an island as a formidable fortress. Originally built in the late 15th
04:39century as a wooden structure by a local Maratha ruler, it was intended to protect against pirates.
04:45By the late 16th century, recognizing the site's strategic importance, Malik Ambar,
04:49the Abyssinian regent of the Sultanate, expanded and reinforced it using stone,
04:54transforming it into a key defensive stronghold. The fort, with its oval shape, rises 40 feet above
05:00sea level, and it's fortified with high walls and 19 rounded bastions equipped with cannons,
05:05many of which remain intact. Its isolated position in the Arabian Sea made it nearly
05:10impregnable, accessible only by boat, and its walls could withstand heavy artillery fire.
05:16One of the fort's ingenious features is its three massive entry gates. The main gate,
05:20facing the shore, remains concealed until one is closed, effectively preventing surprise attacks.
05:26A secondary hidden gate opens directly onto the sea, serving as a secret escape route if needed.
05:32Inside, remnants of palaces, barracks, mosques, and freshwater wells provide insights into
05:37the daily lives of the occupants and their readiness for prolonged self-sufficiency.
05:41Throughout history, Murad Janjira has successfully repelled attacks from various
05:45powers, including the Portuguese, the British, and the Marathas, remaining unconquered. The Siddhis,
05:51initially brought to India as mercenaries, effectively use the fort as the capital of
05:55their powerful independent state. 11. ANKARA KALESI, TURKEY
06:02Ankara Kalesi, an ancient citadel located on a hill in Turkey's capital, Ankara,
06:07dates back to around 2200 years. It was originally constructed by the Galatians,
06:12a Celtic tribe. This fortress has been extensively rebuilt and expanded over the
06:17centuries by various empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and the Ottomans.
06:22It's strategically positioned, with expansive views over the Ankara and the plains beyond.
06:27And it's been consistently a pivotal military site. It has two main sections, the Ik-Kale,
06:33inner castle, and the Dik-Kale, the outer castle. The Ik-Kale is the older section, featuring
06:39remnants of ancient civilizations and towers that preserve the architectural style of the
06:44Roman and Byzantine periods. The Dik-Kale, added later, spans a broader area and includes
06:49residential buildings, mosques, and other structures, illustrating the evolution of
06:53the fortress through time. The fortress's walls are notably thick, constructed from stone and
06:59materials repurposed from earlier structures, including Roman inscriptions and Byzantine
07:03reliefs. This mix of materials has made the citadel a fascinating archaeological site,
07:09where different historical layers visibly converge. Among several large gates, the Hisar
07:14Gate stands out with its massive stone blocks. Beyond its military function, Ankara Kelesi has
07:20been central to urban life, especially during the Ottoman era, when it transformed into a
07:24lively neighborhood, bustling with markets, homes, and workshops. Many of these traditional
07:29structures remain, contributing to the unique character of the castle's narrow, winding streets,
07:34which contrast sharply with the modern city below.
07:3810. Dover Castle in England Dover Castle, known as the key to England
07:44due to its strategic location, stands atop the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, overlooking the
07:49English Channel. This site, one of the largest and most historically significant castles in
07:54England, has been utilized for defense since the Iron Age. The Romans were the first to develop
07:59this site significantly, constructing a lighthouse or tharos to guide their fleets across the channel,
08:04and remnants of which are still visible today. The castle's importance was recognized by William
08:09the Conqueror following the Norman conquest in the 11th century, leading to the construction
08:13of a Mott and Bailey-type castle. About a century later, Henry II commissioned the transformation
08:19of this castle into a massive stone keep, designed by Maurice the Engineer. This structure is well
08:25known for its medieval military architecture, featuring walls up to 21 feet thick, capable of
08:30withstanding any siege weaponry of the time. Under Henry VIII, the castle underwent significant
08:36modernization to accommodate artillery, including the addition of the Tudor Bulwark, an artillery
08:41fortification that enhanced its defenses. However, the castle's historical depth extends beyond its
08:46visible structures. Beneath the castle lies a vast network of tunnels dating back to the medieval
08:51period. These were expanded during the Napoleonic Wars to house troops and supplies, and played a
08:57crucial role during the Second World War as a military command center, crucial during the
09:01Dunkirk evacuation. The tunnels were further adapted during the Cold War to serve as a regional
09:06government headquarters in case of a nuclear attack. Today, as times have changed, Dover Castle
09:12serves as a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to explore over a thousand years
09:17of military history, with views stretching into the French coast on a clear day.
09:229. The Citadel of Aleppo, Syria The Citadel of Aleppo, located in the city
09:29of Aleppo in Syria, ranks among the oldest and largest castles globally. Its origins stretch
09:35back to the 3rd millennium BC, more than 5,000 years ago, during the Emirate period. Archaeological
09:41findings indicate continuous occupation, with the site serving variously as a religious center,
09:46royal palace, and military stronghold. The initial fortifications are believed to have
09:51been constructed by the Hittites, who capitalized on the strategic hilltop location. Throughout the
09:56ages, the citadel was expanded and strengthened by successive rulers, including the Greeks,
10:01the Romans, Byzantines, and notably Islamic dynasties. The current structure primarily
10:06dates from the 12th and 13th centuries, under the Zengid and Ayyubid dynasties.
10:11After Saladin captured Aleppo in 1183, his successors embarked on extensive reconstruction,
10:17converting it into a fortress. The citadel features towering stone walls, some rising
10:22more than 15 meters, equipped with numerous towers and bastions designed to deter invaders.
10:28Its entrance is especially notable, with a complex arrangement of zigzagging ramps and
10:33fortified gates intended to impede any assault. Inside, the Citadel of Aleppo houses several
10:39historic buildings and ruins that highlight its significance. The Great Mosque, constructed in
10:44the early 13th century, exemplifies Islamic architectural trends of the era, with its
10:49minaret and expansive courtyard. Additionally, the throne hall, adorned with intricate decorations
10:55and a vaulted ceiling, reflects the Ayyubid and Mamluk artistic styles. The Citadel of Aleppo
11:00has withstood numerous battles and sieges throughout its history, from medieval crusader
11:05conflicts to modern warfare, symbolizing the enduring spirit of Aleppo itself. Despite its
11:10turbulent past, the citadel remains a potent symbol of the city's rich historical tapestry.
11:178. Hohensalzburg Fortress, Austria Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched above
11:23Salzburg in Austria, has been a pivotal stronghold since its inception in 1077, commissioned by
11:29Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg. Amid conflicts over church appointments with the Holy Roman
11:34Emperor, initially a basic wooden fortification, it was intended to assert the archbishop's
11:40authority and provide protection. Over the centuries, it evolved into an expansive stone
11:44fortress. The fortress underwent significant expansions, particularly in the late 15th
11:49century under Archbishop Leonard von Putschhutsch. This period saw the addition of outer walls,
11:54bastions, and the notable Rekturm and Krauturm towers, incorporating contemporary defensive
12:00strategies. Architecturally, it melds medieval, gothic, and renaissance elements and is evident
12:06in the stunning interior buildings. The Golden Hall, a lavish banquet hall adorned with woodwork
12:11and gold leaf, exemplifies the opulence of past residence. The princely chambers, featuring a
12:17bedchamber, audience hall, and chapel, are still furnished with original artifacts, giving us a
12:22glimpse into historical luxury. Strategically, it is located to oversee trade routes and provide
12:27defense. The fortress was heavily fortified during the 17th century amidst the Thirty Years'
12:32War to prevent Salzburg from being captured. However, it never really faced a direct military
12:37assault. But today, Hohensalzburg Fortress is a major tourist destination, accessible by a
12:42funicular railway. It's got a museum in there that holds a collection of historical artifacts,
12:47including medieval weaponry, armor, and artworks, showcasing the fortress' historical readiness for
12:53potential threats. This rich heritage does make it a fascinating exploration site for visitors.
12:59Moving on to number seven, the Bortanj Fort in the Netherlands. The Bortanj Fort,
13:04located in the Groningen province of the Netherlands, was constructed in 1593 during
13:09the Eighty Years' War as a strategic measure by William the Silent, Prince of Orange.
13:14He aimed to control the sole road between Germany and the Spanish-occupied city of Groningen.
13:20This fort is a quintessential example of a star fort or bastion fort, a design that gained
13:25popularity in Renaissance Europe. Its star-shaped layout with multiple outward projecting bastions
13:30allows defenders to provide mutual cover with crossfire, minimizing any blind spots.
13:36The fort's five bastions, named after saints, are linked by walls and encircled by wide,
13:41water-filled moats, forming a defensive structure. It was constructed with earthworks rather than
13:46stone, the walls were more effective at absorbing any artillery fire, and the moats were continuously
13:51supplied by a network of canals. Inside housed a small community comprised of both military
13:57personnel and civilians, complete with barracks, storerooms, and other necessary facilities.
14:03Over the years, it has endured numerous sieges and attacks, including during the Franco-Dutch
14:07War and the War of Spanish Succession. However, its military relevance waned with advances in
14:13military technology, leading to its decommissioning and subsequent transformation into a rural village
14:18by the early 19th century. Recognizing its history, the Dutch government initiated a
14:24restoration project in the 1960s to return the fort to its 1742 state. This restoration was
14:30conducted with great attention to detail, using historical documents and evidence to accurately
14:36recreate the original layout and structures. Today, it serves as a living museum, where
14:41visitors can immerse themselves in the life of an 18th-century fortress. It features cobbled streets,
14:47reconstructed buildings, and multiple museums that chronicle its storied past and the daily
14:52lives of its former inhabitants. 6. CAERPHILLY CASTLE, WALES
14:59Caerphilly Castle, located in South Wales, stands as the largest castle in Wales and the second
15:04largest among the UK's over 4,000 castles. Constructed in the late 13th century by Gilbert
15:10de Clare, known as Gilbert the Red, the castle was designed to consolidate his control over the
15:16region and counter the threat from a Welsh prince. It was completed between 1268 and 1271. The castle's
15:22design introduced several innovative features that would influence the construction of future
15:27fortresses. A notable aspect is its extensive use of water defenses, including artificial lakes and
15:33moats, that not only hindered attacks but also added to the site's aesthetic appeal during peacetime.
15:38The inner ward is fortified with high curtain walls, impressive gatehouses, and large round
15:44towers, showcasing its formidable defensive capability. The castle features a concentric
15:49layout with inner walls surrounded by multiple outer walls, offering layered protection. This
15:54design reflected a sophisticated understanding of military strategy at the time, and it was
15:59considered forward-thinking. Although now partially ruined, the central keep remains
16:03a prominent feature, providing views of the surrounding landscape, which would have served
16:07as an early warning system in medieval times. Caerphilly Castle quickly became a symbol of the
16:13Norman power in South Wales, serving as a royal and noble residence and withstanding numerous sieges.
16:18By the 15th century, however, advancements in weaponry and shifts in the political landscape
16:23led to its decline and disrepair. Restoration efforts didn't begin until the 18th and 19th
16:28centuries, spearheaded by the Marquess of Bute, who conducted extensive work to preserve and
16:33restore the castle. Thanks to those efforts, this castle is now celebrated as a crucial
16:38historical monument, attracting visitors who are eager to explore its rich history
16:42and its architecture. 5. Spiš Castle, Slovakia
16:48Spiš Castle, located near Spiške Porady in eastern Slovakia, is one of the largest medieval
16:54castles in Central Europe, sprawling over 41,000 square meters. Construction began in the early
16:5912th century, replacing an earlier wooden fort with a stone structure featuring Romanesque
17:04architecture, including strengthened walls and a square tower. Over the 13th and 14th centuries,
17:10the castle saw significant expansions and renovations, integrating Gothic elements
17:14like pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and decorative window tracery. The castle complex is divided into
17:20the upper, middle, and lower wards, with each serving distinct functions. The oldest part,
17:25the upper ward, contained the main living quarters, a chapel, and the great hall. The
17:29middle and lower wards were later additions, designed to accommodate workshops, stables,
17:34and more living space. During the late Middle Ages, Spiš Castle emerged as a critical administrative
17:39and military hub, acting as the seat of the region's political and judicial authority.
17:44It played a pivotal role in tax collection and served as a refuge during military threats.
17:49The Renaissance period brought another wave of changes in the 16th century, introducing
17:53elements like decorative facades, spacious courtyards, and enhanced living quarters,
17:58blending these new features with the existing Gothic structure. However, the castle's prominence
18:03declined in the early 17th century as political and military power shifted away from the region.
18:09A severe fire in 1780 marked the start of a long decline, leading to the ruin of many structures,
18:15some of which were dismantled for materials. Restoration efforts in the 20th century,
18:20including archaeological excavations, have since transformed the castle into a significant
18:25historical and cultural landmark, preserving its rich heritage.
18:304. The Alamo, Texas The Alamo, located in San Antonio, Texas,
18:36is perhaps the most iconic fortress in the Americas, with a profound role in the Texas
18:41Revolution. Originally founded as Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718 by Spanish missionaries,
18:48its initial purpose was to convert Native Americans to Christianity and solidify Spanish
18:53presence in the region. Over time, its strategic location transformed it from a religious site to
18:58a key military asset, protecting Spanish colonial interests with a complex that included a church,
19:05living quarters, workshops, and defensive walls typical of a Spanish architecture.
19:10In 1793, the mission was secularized and repurposed by the Spanish military into
19:15barracks and storage facilities, setting the stage for its later military significance.
19:19After Mexico's independence from Spain in the early 19th century, the Alamo remained
19:24a military stronghold, with further enhancements made to the fortifications.
19:28By late 1835, Texan rebels had seized the Alamo from Mexican forces. Leadership under
19:33Colonel James C. Neal and William B. Travis oversaw significant fortifications,
19:38including reinforced walls, new palisades, and strategically placed cannons.
19:42Preparations for defense included earthworks and wooden structures, complementing the stone
19:47fortifications, with the mission's chapel becoming a critical stronghold due to its
19:51robust walls and limited access. The Battle of the Alamo started on February 23, 1836,
19:58testing the fortress's defenses for 13 days against larger Mexican forces.
20:03Despite being outnumbered and ultimately defeated, the Texan defenders utilized the
20:07Alamo's fortifications to maintain a strong resistance, weakening the Mexican forces'
20:12resolve. The fall of the Alamo on March 6th became a symbol of Texan resilience,
20:17inspiring the rallying cry, Remember the Alamo. This spirit fueled the Texan victory at the
20:23Battle of San Jacinto, ultimately securing Texas' independence from Mexico. Today,
20:29the Alamo stands as an example of bravery and resistance, drawing visitors from around
20:34the world to remember its pivotal role in American history.
20:383. The Alcazar of Toledo, Spain The Alcazar of Toledo, perched on the highest
20:44hill in Toledo, Spain, has a rich history dating back to the 3rd century, when the Romans
20:50established a fortification on the site. The location was chosen to oversee and protect the
20:54surrounding area, setting the stage for its evolution into a significant military and royal
20:59hub over the centuries. After the Roman Empire's decline, the Visigoths and later the Moors
21:04expanded the fortress, and its significance surged after the Christian reconquest of Toledo in 1085.
21:10Under King Alfonso VI, the fortress was transformed into a royal palace and military academy.
21:16In the 16th century, under Emperor Charles V, the Alcazar saw the additional enhancements
21:21including stunning facades, grand courtyards, and ornate halls, symbolizing their royal power.
21:27The architectural design here reflects its historical influences,
21:31now featuring a symmetrical rectangular layout with four corner towers. The southern facade
21:36exemplifies Renaissance architecture and houses a magnificent courtyard with a double arcade,
21:42a grand staircase, and elaborately decorated halls. Beyond the architectural interest here,
21:47the Alcazar has been central to numerous pivotal events in Spanish history,
21:51most notably during the Spanish Civil War. It was a stronghold of nationalist resistance.
21:56Despite a prolonged 70-day siege by loyalist forces, a small garrison of nationalist troops
22:01held firm until relief arrived. This event became a powerful propaganda tool for General Francisco
22:07Franco and his movement. Following the Civil War, extensive restoration work was undertaken to
22:12repair the damages sustained during the siege, but today it houses the Castilla la Mancha Regional
22:18Library and the Army Museum. These institutions host a comprehensive collection of military
22:23artifacts, documents, and exhibits that chronicle Spain's rich military history.
22:292. MARANGAR FORT, INDIA The Marangar Fort, perched on a rocky hill
22:35122 meters above Jodhpur in India, offers views of the surrounding landscape. Construction began
22:41in 1459 under Raujata, the ruler of Mandur and the founder of Jodhpur. The fort was initially
22:47built to protect the region from invasions and to serve as the capital for the new kingdom.
22:52Over the centuries, success of rulers here added to the fort, creating a structure that
22:56now showcases a unique blend of architectural styles. It is renowned for its defenses,
23:01too, featuring walls that reach up to 36 meters high and about 21 meters wide.
23:07Access to the interior is through seven gates, each with its own story. The most notable gate
23:12is the Jaipur, or the Victory Gate, erected by Maharaja Man Singh in 1806 to celebrate his
23:18victories over the armies of Jaipur and Baikonur. Inside the fort, visitors can explore a series of
23:23palaces, courtyards, and temples, and noteworthy among these are the Moti Mahal, or Pearl Palace,
23:29adorned with intricate mirror work and colorful glass windows, the Phul Mahal, or Flower Palace,
23:35originally a private chamber for the Maharajas, decorated with gold filigree and elaborate
23:39paintings, and the Shish Mahal, or Mirror Palace, known for its exceptional mirror work and detailed
23:45decorations. Today, though, the fort operates as a living museum that offers a window into the
23:50region's past. Its extensive collection includes palanquins, royal cradles, musical instruments,
23:55costumes, and arms and armor. One of the highlights here is the collection of haudas, the seats used
24:00for riding elephants, showcasing the grandeur of the Rajput royalty. This exhibit not only
24:06shows the opulence of the era, but also symbolizes the majestic approach one might have taken to
24:11enter the fort. 1. The Rock of Gibraltar
24:16The Rock of Gibraltar, a natural limestone formation, stands as a fortress due to its
24:21strategic location at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, controlling the narrow
24:26strait that separates Europe from Africa. This pivotal site was first fortified by the Moors
24:31in the early 8th century, during their invasion of the Iberian Peninsula, recognizing its crucial
24:36role in maritime navigation and trade. The name Gibraltar itself is derived from Jabal Tariq,
24:42named after the Moorish leader Tariq bin Ziyad. In 1309, Gibraltar was captured by Castilian forces,
24:49integrating it into the Kingdom of Castile. However, its fortification was significantly
24:53enhanced in the 18th century during the War of Spanish Succession, when an Anglo-Dutch fleet
24:58captured Gibraltar in 1704, and it has been under British control ever since, formalized by the
25:04Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. Under British rule, Gibraltar's natural advantages of steep cliffs
25:11and elevated positions were further exploited. The British constructed a network of tunnels
25:15within the rock known as the Great Siege Tunnels during the Great Siege of Gibraltar between 1779
25:20and 1883. These tunnels were strategically used to position cannons that could fire upon Spanish
25:26and French forces, attempting to recapture the territory while providing protection for the
25:30defenders. Throughout the 18th and 19th century, additional fortifications such as bastions,
25:35batteries, and walls were erected, turning it into one of the most formidable fortresses in Europe.
25:40During World War II, the importance of Gibraltar escalated as it served as a base for operations in
25:45the Med, acting as a staging ground for campaigns in North Africa and the invasion of Italy. The
25:51British expanded the tunnel network, creating an extensive underground city that could accommodate
25:56thousands of troops. Today, though, while its strategic and military importance has waned,
26:00the Rock of Gibraltar continues to host a British military garrison. Its role has shifted, though,
26:06more towards a symbol of historical significance rather than an active defensive outpost.
26:12Thanks for watching, everyone. I'll see you next time.
26:15Thank you to our channel members.