Synopses & Reviews
Sandwiched between the heart of ancient Greece and the lands of Persia, the Greek cities of Western Anatolia were the spark that ignited some of the most iconic conflicts of the ancient world. Fought over repeatedly in the 5th century BC, their conquest by the Persians provided a casus belli for Alexander the Great to cross the Hellespont in 334 BC and launch the battle of Granicus and the sieges of Miletus and Halicarnassus. A blend of Greek and Asian styles of military architecture, these fortified cities were revolutionary in their multi-linear construction - successive defensive walls - with loopholes and mural arches. Konstantin Nossov illustrates the evolution of Greek fortifications and the influences of the region they bordered in this fascinating study.
Synopsis
This concise well illustrated book looks at the fortifications of the Greek cities in western Anatolia, from their earliest colonisation to their conquest by the Romans. As well as examining the physical structures and their design and function the book also serves as a brief guide to the various campaigns fought in the region. A gazetteer of the best sites to visit today closes the book.
About the Author
Konstantin Nossov is a researcher in and advisor on ancient and medieval arms, armor 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, Russia, and has traveled extensively in Europe, North Africa, South Asia, Asia Minor and the Far East. Konstantin has written several Osprey books, as well as other English language titles and numerous books in Russian. The author lives in Moscow, Russia.