In the second half of the third millennium BC the Indo-European tribe known as the Hittites migrated and settled in Central Anatolia, at that time a land of small city-states whose rulers lived in fortresses. These fortifications enabled the Hittites to transform themselves into a Bronze Age super-power defeating the Egyptians at Kadesh in c.1274 BC. Konstantin Nossov examines the fortifications constructed by the Hittites in their efforts to sustain and then halt the decline of their once flourishing empire. Providing an in-depth anatomy of the fortresses, focusing on the major sites of the principal city Hattusha as well as sites at Alacah y k and Karatepe, with full-color reconstructions, this is an intriguing glimpse into the history of an empire which at its height rivalled the Egyptians and Assyrians. It concludes with an examination of these sites as they survive today, information that will appeal to both enthusiasts and tourists visiting the area.
About the Author
Reverend Dr. Stephen Motyer is a lecturer at the London Bible College. He has written numerous books and articles about the Bible, including Who's Who in the Bible, and was a consultant for the highly acclaimed Children's Illustrated Bible and Illustrated Family Bible, all published by DK Publishing, Inc. Brian Delf has illustrated many children's books for DK Publishing, Inc., including the best-selling Picture Atlas of the World.
"Although much has vanished over the millennia there’s still a surprising amount to be seen by visitors to the area, and the major sites are comprehensively described and illustrated here. The Hittites clashed with other empires as well as with nearer neighbours, and developed some intriguing fortification techniques as a result. This is a book that will fascinate students of the ancient Near East as well as wargamers. Highly recommended." -John Prigent, Internet Modeler (March 2008)
"The author examines the various features of Hittite fortifications; walls, towers, gates, posterns, and ramparts. A volume that will interest those who study ancient history or archeology offer a different perspective on the once powerful Hittites." -J.E. Kaufmann, SiteO (March 2008)
"Overall, another fine book in this series and one that should be on the shelves of anyone interested in this particular time and place in ancient history." -Scott Van Aken, modelingmadness.com (March 2008)