From the high citadels of Pedro Escrivá in Naples to the new Portuguese paradigm of coastal city-fortresses

This study reveals a significant shift in Portuguese military architecture during the early 1540s, marked by the development of low-profile, bulwarked coastal city-fortresses designed to counter maritime warfare. The research highlights how Francisco de Holanda's experiences in Italy, particularly his exposure to Pedro Escrivá's star-shaped citadels and brick construction techniques, influenced the design of Mazagão (El Jadida), the first Modern European city-fortress. Unlike traditional high citadels, these new structures prioritized adaptability to naval sieges, reflecting Portuguese innovations in both military engineering and overseas expansion strategies.

Campos, J. (2026). From the high citadels of Pedro Escrivá in Naples to the new Portuguese paradigm of coastal city-fortresses. PROCEEDINGS of the International Conference on Fortifications of the Mediterranean Coast FORTMED 2026. Vol. 22. https://doi.org/10.4995/fortmed2026.2026.21378