Fortress #75 covers the defensive structures that were modified and built by the enthusiastic spread of Islam during the second half of the first millennia. As often as not, pre-existing structures of Byzantine, Indian and Chinese inputs were used to build what turned into a hybrid and very effective series of fortifications. These were both new and quite distinctive.

The majority of these were built of mud brick, though many also had stone added into the construction. These fortifications were used to protect the trade routes used as well as for frontier outposts. As the Saracens expanded, many of the forts were no longer needed and were abandon, only to fall into disrepair.

Unlike many of the previous fortresses used by other civilizations, these were divided into two basic types. One was a small stronghold that often as not, surrounded a mosque. Others were gigantic and encompassed entire cities, such as the Round City of Baghdad.

In this book, author David Nicholle covers the methods of construction as well as the major parts of these fortresses. Every site that has had a fortress built upon it is covered to some extent. Some of these have been restored to some extent or another while others are near total ruin. Those that are still extant are, of course, given greater coverage and the use of photos as they are or have been in the last century or so. To help us visualize what some of these may have been like, Adam Hook has provided superlative illustrations of not only the physical layout, but also some of the action that took places at these locales.

While many of these extant sites are now in areas that are less than easily accessible, such as Iraq and Afghanistan, others in Iran, Egypt and some of the former Soviet client states are still available to the tourist and enthusiast.

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 history.

September 2008

For more on the complete line of Osprey books, visit www.ospreypublishing.com. In the US, it is Osprey Direct at 44-02 23rd St, Suite 219, Long Island City, NY 11101., where you can get a catalogue of available books.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.