Uncovering the History and Significance of Demibastions in Fortifications

Demibastion (plural: demibastions) is a fortification element used in the 16th and 17th centuries. It consists of a small, raised platform or battery, usually surrounded by a ditch, which projects from the main line of fortifications to provide additional defensive firepower. The term "demibastion" comes from the French word "demi-bastion," meaning "half-bastion."

The demibastion was typically built at a salient angle in the fortifications, where it could cover the approach to the main gate and provide flanking fire against attackers trying to get around the bastion. It was often supported by a ravelin or other smaller fortifications, which helped to protect the demibastion from enemy fire.

Demibastions were used extensively in the star forts of the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly in the Netherlands and France. They were also used in other types of fortifications, such as the trench forts of the First World War. Today, the term "demibastion" is still used by military historians and fortification enthusiasts to describe these distinctive fortification elements.