Machicoulis
were, basically, specially arranged loop-holes along the outer edge of the
second story of a blockhouse, fortified structure, or scarp wall above the
ditch of a fortification that allowed fire to be delivered downward from
a covered position. They were especially useful in unflanked works or along
interior angles of permanent fortification for bringing defensive fire to
bear on points along the base of walls that could not otherwise be reached
by fire from the work. A machicouli gallery was a bullet-proof wooden structure
attached to the exterior of a fortified building that allowed defenders to
fire downward onto the base of the building's exterior walls and were
particularly useful when placed above doorways and large windows that might
become the objects of an assault to gain entry into the building.
Machicoulis
were, basically, specially arranged loop-holes along the outer edge of the
second story of a blockhouse, fortified structure, or scarp wall above the
ditch of a fortification that allowed fire to be delivered downward from
a covered position. They were especially useful in unflanked works or along
interior angles of permanent fortification for bringing defensive fire to
bear on points along the base of walls that could not otherwise be reached
by fire from the work. A machicouli gallery was a bullet-proof wooden structure
attached to the exterior of a fortified building that allowed defenders to
fire downward onto the base of the building's exterior walls and were
particularly useful when placed above doorways and large windows that might
become the objects of an assault to gain entry into the building.
