The strategy of constructing defensive structures has always revolved around the use of massive foundations that not only provide unparalleled strength but also allow for the integration of additional protective elements.

Foundations of Strategic Defense

The strategy of constructing defensive structures has always revolved around the use of massive foundations that not only provide unparalleled strength but also allow for the integration of additional protective elements. Even in the early stages of constructing such objects, it was evident that wide walls serve a dual function – they not only withstand the mechanical impact from siege engines and natural forces like ocean waves but also provide a reliable platform for the placement of tall towers and other fortifications. This symbiosis of a massive foundation and elevated defensive elements in creating a cohesive system ensured the durability and safety of internal spaces. An example from the history of harbor construction demonstrates how different parts of the structure, whether wave barriers or stone walls with towers, interact to create a unified, stable edifice. This confirms that the judicious use of a wide foundation not only increased the physical reliability of the structure but also enhanced its strategic defensive qualities, providing reliable protection against any external threats.

Why were walls historically built with such great width, sometimes reaching 8-9 meters, and what was the purpose of this architectural feature?

The great width of the walls was used precisely to give the structure strategic strength and stability. Such massive foundations enabled the walls not only to reliably repel enemy attacks and withstand the pressure of destructive forces (whether the mechanical impact from siege engines or natural forces like ocean waves) but also to serve as the support for other defensive elements, such as tall towers. This allowed for the creation of a unified whole, where the massive foundation was combined with elevated defensive structures.

For example, one description of harbor construction states:
"After the depth was completed, an above-water section of the dam measuring two hundred feet in width was built: for one hundred feet, the dam extended into the sea to resist the waves – this part was called the breakwater; the other section, one hundred feet wide, served as the foundation for a stone wall encircling the harbor itself. In places, this wall was equipped with extremely tall towers, the most beautiful of which was named Druzion" (source: link txt).

Thus, the use of such a wide foundation not only guaranteed the durability of the structure but also allowed for the integration of additional defensive functions, ensuring the safety of internal spaces and the airtightness of the fortifications.