Sconce (fortification)
A sconce is a small protective fortification, such as an earthwork, often placed on a mound as a defensive work for artillery.[1] It was used primarily in Northern Europe from the late Middle Ages until the 19th century. This type of fortification was common during the English Civil War, and the remains of one such structure can be seen on Fort Royal Hill in Worcester, England.[2]
During the
The Zaanse Schans, one of the top tourist locations in the Netherlands, derived its name from its original function as a sconce. Sconces played a major part in the Serbian Revolution, countering the numerical superiority of the Turkish army.
Etymology
The etymology of sconce is from the Latin absconsus, via the French esconce: a word of many meanings, mostly signifying a covering or protection, or, by extension, that which is covered or protected.
See also
References
- ^ Images of England: Sconce
- ^ Fort Royal, Worcester
- ^ This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). "Sconce". Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 24 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. p. 407.
- ^ ensconce The Lexiteria & alphaDictionary
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