Hittite Fortifications c.1650-700 BC

Description

In the second half of the third millennium BC the Indo-European tribe known as the Hittites migrated and settled in Central Anatolia, at that time a land of small city-states whose rulers lived in fortresses. These fortifications enabled the Hittites to transform themselves into a Bronze Age super-power, defeating the Egyptians at Kadesh in c.1274 BC. Konstantin Nossov examines the fortifications constructed by the Hittites in their efforts to sustain and then halt the decline of their once flourishing empire. Providing an in-depth anatomy of the fortresses, focusing on the major sites of the principal city Hattusha as well as sites at Alacahoeyuk and Karatepe with full-colour reconstructions, this is an intriguing glimpse into the history of an empire which at its height rivalled the Egyptians and Assyrians. It concludes with an examination of these sites as they survive today, information that will appeal both to history enthusiasts and tourists visiting the area.

Konstantin Nossov is a researcher in and advisor on ancient and medieval arms, armour and warfare, as well as the author of numerous books and articles on the subject. His particular areas of interest include the history of weapons, fortification and siege warfare. He has lived all his life in Moscow and has travelled extensively in Europe, North Africa, South Asia, Asia Minor and the Far East. Brian Delf began his career working in a London art studio producing artwork for advertising and commercial publications. Since 1972, he has worked as a freelance illustrator on a variety of subjects including natural history, architecture and technical cutaways. His illlistrations have been published in over thirty countries. Brian lives and works in Oxfordshire.

"The author examines the various features of Hittite fortifications; walls, towers, gates, posterns, and ramparts. A volume that will interest those who study ancient history or archeology offer a different perspective on the once powerful Hittites." --J.E. Kaufmann, SiteO (March 2008) "Overall, another fine book in this series and one that should be on the shelves of anyone interested in this particular time and place in ancient history." --Scott Van Aken, modelingmadness.com (March 2008) "Although much has vanished over the millennia there's still a surprising amount to be seen by visitors to the area, and the major sites are comprehensively described and illustrated here. The Hittites clashed with other empires as well as with nearer neighbours, and developed some intriguing fortification techniques as a result. This is a book that will fascinate students of the ancient Near East as well as wargamers. Highly recommended." --John Prigent, Internet Modeler (March 2008)