II. The Hindu System of Fortification in South India (3rd-14th century A.D.)

Introduction As mentioned in the preceding chapter, until the 3rd century A.D., strongholds in the Indian subcontinent were usually built according to a geometrical plan (quadrilateral, trapezium, rectangle, square, circle or semicircle); they consisted of a high and thick earthen embankment, with stone facing, corresponding to a wide and deep ditch; curtain walls were always massive and, except at some sites, flanked by solid quadrangular towers; gateways were relatively simple: a passage be..