The evolution of defensive architecture in the Sasanian Empire

Conferenza del

PROF. EBERHARD SAUER

University of Edinburgh - Oilthigh Dhùn Èideann

21 April 2022, ore 15
Sala conferenze del Dipartimento di Beni Culturali e webinar

The evolution of defensive architecture in the Sasanian Empire

by

Eberhard W. Sauer, Jebrael Nokandeh, Hamid Omrani Rekavandi, Lana Chologauri and Davit Naskidashvili

In the AD 220s a dynamic new dynasty emerged in Persia, which soon seriously challenged the old superpower of Rome in the west. Notably, the massive siege camp at Hatra provides insights into the military capabilities of the Sasanian Empire. Yet, it was not until the 4^th century that inroads by new opponents in the north-east, north and south of the empire provided an incentive for a step-change in defensive efforts. In the 4^th to early 5^th century, we see the emergence of new forms of defensive monuments. Mountain gorges in the Caucasus were systematically blocked and massive fortifications provided safe bases for the field army. Defensive efforts accelerated in the 5^th century, which saw the construction of further fortresses. Chains and networks of forts on the Gorgan Plain were subsequently supplemented by the late antique world’s longest fort-lined barrier. In the 5^th to 6^th century efforts continued to block all viable passes across the Caucasus. Much of this was accomplished in close collaboration with Persia’s allies, notably Iberia and Albania in Transcaucasia. Eventually, Sasanian Persia was the most heavily entrenched of all Near Eastern Empires in Antiquity, and the strength of its northern defences enabled it to project its might in the 7^th century to the west. The less heavily defended south proved to be the empire’s Achilles heel in the end. In our time, with threats from the north once again looming large, this pivotal period of world history is once again of great contemporary relevance.