SIEGE TOWERS

Roman siege towers were a crucial tool in their arsenal of siege warfare.

Key features:

* Size and Structure: Siege towers were often multi-story structures, their height matching or exceeding the height of the city walls. They were typically built on a wooden framework, covered with protective materials like animal hides or iron plates.

* Mobility: Siege towers were mounted on wheels, enabling them to be moved closer to the city walls.

* Ramps and Platforms: Ramps or bridges were extended from the tower to allow soldiers to quickly ascend and engage the defenders on the walls.

* Defensive Capabilities: Some siege towers were equipped with defensive features like arrow slits or even small ballistae to repel enemy attacks.

* Battering Ram: In some cases, a battering ram was integrated into the base of the tower, allowing it to breach city gates or walls.

Tactics and Usage:

* Overwhelming the Defenders: By bringing soldiers closer to the walls under the protection of the tower, the Romans could overwhelm defenders with numbers and firepower.

* Protecting Assault Forces: The tower shielded soldiers from projectiles and missiles thrown from the city walls.

* Psychological Warfare: The sheer size and imposing nature of siege towers could demoralize defenders, making them more susceptible to surrender.