Talus
|
The Tughlaqabad Fort has a talus as part of its extensive defensive network. |
The term 'talus' describes sloped fortifications at the base of certain types of military structures. The talus is typically larger than a batter, which is another form of sloped defensive wall.
The talus is often thicker than the top portion of the wall, which protects the structure by making it difficult to damage. Its angled construction makes it difficult for attackers to scale with ladders.
This wall strengthening approach was sometimes used around medieval castles to enhance their defenses. It is believed that defenders would intentionally throw stones onto the talus to increase the chance of damage caused by shrapnel-like projectiles.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Confronting competency, codes, capacity and costs.
The hidden risk in modern construction supply chains.
Construction Management, 10 June
24 months to 14: CITB launches accelerated apprenticeships.
Bridging the gap between clients and contractors
Concerns remain around contractor quality, capability, and delivery.
Construction Management, 10 June.
Heat pumps beat boilers in new home tests.
Building Safety Act implementation in Wales
CIAT to host industry panel on 26 June.
New and updated CLC building safety guidance.
New UK National Buildings Database.
Building Safety Wiki Interviews
Chief executive of the British Woodworking Federation.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief explanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.