In
permanent fortifications the cordon was the coping at or within four feet
of the top of the scarp wall that ran around the full perimeter of the enciente.
It usually projected outward from the vertical line of the scarp about one
foot and could either be constructed using shaped stone or brick. The cordon's
primary purpose to to protect the top of the scarp wall from moisture penetration
that could damage the soundness of the masonry. Cordons also served as minor
obstacles to any attempt to scale the scarp during an open assault or escalade.
In
permanent fortifications the cordon was the coping at or within four feet
of the top of the scarp wall that ran around the full perimeter of the enciente.
It usually projected outward from the vertical line of the scarp about one
foot and could either be constructed using shaped stone or brick. The cordon's
primary purpose to to protect the top of the scarp wall from moisture penetration
that could damage the soundness of the masonry. Cordons also served as minor
obstacles to any attempt to scale the scarp during an open assault or escalade.
