Abstract:

Fortification walls were needed to protect settlements from dangers such as invasion. Although the dimentions of the fortification walls vary according to the construction dates and the structure of the lands, they have progressed in the same direction throughout history. In this respect, Seljuk fortifications are similar in structure to the fortifications used by different civilisations such as Byzantium (Eastern Rome). The fortification walls are generally composed of promenades, towers and gates. However, there are also more complex fortification structures. The promenades are the parts that allow the soldiers to walk on the walls, the towers are the security of the fortification and the gates are the parts that provide safe exit from the cities. Trebuchets are one of the biggest enemies of fortifications. During the sieges, trebuchets were used effectively to destroy the fortifications and intimidate the people of the city. Trebuchets emerged in China the 5th-4th BC and spread to Asia Minor and Europe with the help of the Turks. Trebuchets are generally analysed in three different types. These types are named as traction system, hybrid and counterweight. Types differ accordiıng to their systems. These three different types were probably also used by the Seljuks. However, it should be noted that what we know about the types of Trebuchets used by the Seljuks does not go beyond the limited information provided by sources.

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